What is the recommended force and size of box elastics (orthodontic elastics) for a patient with posterior open bite?

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Recommended Force and Size of Box Elastics for Posterior Open Bite

I cannot provide specific recommendations for force and size of box elastics for posterior open bite treatment, as the provided evidence does not contain relevant orthodontic guidelines or research addressing this specific clinical question.

What the Evidence Shows

The available literature discusses related but distinct topics:

  • Anterior open bite treatment uses vertical intermaxillary elastics combined with miniscrew anchorage for molar intrusion, but does not specify force magnitudes or elastic sizes 1
  • Lateral open bite correction employs intermaxillary elastics for dentoalveolar extrusion, though specific elastic parameters are not detailed 2, 3
  • Posterior and Class III elastics were used in one case report for lateral open bite, but without standardized force recommendations 2

Critical Knowledge Gap

The evidence provided does not include:

  • Orthodontic treatment guidelines specifying elastic force ranges
  • Standardized protocols for box elastic size selection
  • Biomechanical studies on optimal force delivery for posterior open bite
  • Comparative studies of different elastic configurations

Clinical Considerations Based on General Orthodontic Principles

While not directly supported by the provided evidence, posterior open bite treatment typically requires:

  • Careful biomechanical planning to determine whether extrusion of posterior teeth or intrusion of opposing teeth is indicated
  • Skeletal anchorage consideration using miniscrews at the zygomatic buttress for molar intrusion when appropriate 4
  • Patient compliance monitoring as elastic wear is critical for treatment success and long-term stability 1

This question requires consultation with current orthodontic treatment guidelines or textbooks that specifically address elastic mechanics, which were not included in the provided evidence base.

References

Research

Lateral open bite and crossbite correction in a Class III patient with missing maxillary first premolars.

American journal of orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics : official publication of the American Association of Orthodontists, its constituent societies, and the American Board of Orthodontics, 2017

Research

Lateral open bite: treatment and stability.

American journal of orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics : official publication of the American Association of Orthodontists, its constituent societies, and the American Board of Orthodontics, 2010

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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