Anterior Open Bite and its Connection with Brain Activity

Anterior Open Bite Affects Brain Activity

In the world of pediatric dentistry, anterior open bite (AOB) presents a frequent challenge. This occlusal alteration, characterized by a lack of contact between the upper and lower incisors, generates not only aesthetic but also functional and neurodevelopmental implications.

Is there a relationship between anterior open bite and brain activity?

While the etiology of AOB is multifactorial, in recent years, pioneering research has opened a new window into understanding this condition. Dr. Claudia Restrepo Serna, a Colombian dentist, neuroscientist, and researcher, has led studies exploring the connection between AOB and brain activity in children.

The pilot study "Cortical activity in children with anterior open bite: a pilot study," published in the scientific journal Frontiers in Neuroscience, marks a milestone in this area. Through electroencephalograms (EEG), the brain activity of children with AOB was analyzed during swallowing, phonation, and rest.

Results

The findings revealed significant differences in brain activity during rest between children with AOB and those with normal occlusion. This suggests that AOB could be associated with alterations in brain neuroplasticity, the brain's ability to adapt and change in response to stimuli.

These results open a promising panorama for understanding and treating AOB. By understanding the relationship between this occlusal alteration and brain activity, more effective and personalized therapeutic strategies can be developed.

The importance of thinking beyond the mouth in pediatric dentistry

Dr. Restrepo Serna's research represents an important step in linking dentistry with neuroscience, disciplines that were previously considered separate. This holistic approach opens new possibilities for the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of AOB, benefiting children who suffer from this condition.

Hence the importance for dentists to stay updated on the latest advances in AOB research and its relationship with brain activity. Exploring reliable sources of information, such as scientific journals and specialized portals, will allow them to offer comprehensive and cutting-edge care to their patients.

Do you want to know the details of this research? Here is the direct link to the publication:

https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fnhum.2020.00220/full

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32714165/