Early tooth extraction in the treatment of anterior open bite in hyperdivergent patients.

AIM: To describe the treatment of a 7-year-old patient with a hyperdivergent (dolichofacial) pattern, Class II Division 1 malocclusion, and anterior open bite.

METHODS: Treatment was performed in 2 stages following the principles of the Ricketts bioprogressive technique and comprised early extraction of the maxillary permanent first molars and primary second molars.

RESULTS: The treatment plan established for correction of the initial malocclusion reached the orthodontic goals, providing optimal esthetics and normal function.

CONCLUSION: Posterior dentoalveolar height, which is fundamental in diagnosis and treatment planning, should be investigated in cases with excessive vertical dimension. In addition, extraction of permanent or primary maxillary posterior teeth at an early age may be a good option for hyperdivergent patients with excessive posterior dentoalveolar height.