title: Etiology and pathogenesis of anterior open bite: a review.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  To review the etiology and pathogenesis of anterior open bite malocclusion.
  
  
  METHODS
  Review of literature was affected through Pubmed, Google scholar and Science direct. References identified from articles found from the primary search were also reviewed.
  
  
  METHODS
  Published data on etiology and pathogenesis of anterior open bite over the last five decades (1960-2009) were utilised.
  
  
  METHODS
  Full articles, abstracts and relevant book chapters were read and analysed to determine the relevant material for this article.
  
  
  METHODS
  All relevant articles were reviewed in full and necessary information eextracted as necessary.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  A clear understanding of the etiology and pathogenesis of anterior open bite is essential in the diagnosis, prevention and management of this malocclusion.
authors: Department of Stomatological Studies, University of Limpopo, Medunsa Campus, South Africa.
authors: J
authors: J
authors: Wanjau
authors: M P S
authors: MP
authors: Sethusa
mesh_terms: D005386:Fingersucking / Q000009:adverse effects; D006801:Humans; D009468:Neuromuscular Diseases / Q000150:complications; D024343:Open Bite / Q000209:etiology* / Q000473:pathology*; D013705:Temporomandibular Joint Disorders / Q000150:complications