The Vertical Dimension - An Orthodontist Perspective

Deepbite and open bite presents an orthodontist with challenge in any of its much form. Diagnosis, treatment planning and appropriate mechanics form a backbone of successful orthodontic treatment of these kinds of vertical problems. Patients with this kind of malocclusion can be diagnosed clinically and cephalometrically, however, diagnosis should be viewed in the context of the skeletal and dental structure. Vertical growth is the last dimension to be completed, therefore treatment may appear to be successful one point and fail later. Some treatment may be prolonged if begun early. This article reviews diagnosis, control of vertical dimension which aims at striking a balance between the soft- tissues and the dento - alveolar and skeletal structures. So far various techniques have been tried both successfully and unsuccessfully, both surgically and orthodontically (Even a combination of both).