Oral Myofunctional Pattern in Children With Anterior Open Bite

Launched by UNIVERSITY GHENT · Jun 23, 2025

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is studying a special type of therapy called orofacial myofunctional therapy (OMT), which aims to improve how the muscles around the mouth and face work. The focus is on children who have an anterior open bite, a condition where the front teeth don’t touch when the mouth is closed. This can affect chewing, speech, and appearance. The study wants to see if a structured OMT program can help improve the bite, muscle function, and overall oral health and quality of life for these children. The trial will compare different types of therapy programs, including a traditional full program, a shorter version, and a fake (sham) treatment, to understand what works best.

Children who are in the early stages of losing baby teeth and growing adult teeth (called early or intermediate mixed dentition) and who have an open bite may be eligible to join. Kids who have already had or are currently in mouth muscle or orthodontic treatments, or who have certain health conditions affecting their face, mouth, or development, won’t be able to participate. If accepted, participants will have their bite and mouth muscle function checked before and after the therapy. They will attend weekly therapy sessions based on the program they are assigned to, helping researchers learn how these treatments might improve their condition over time.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Presence of anterior open bite (AOB)
• • Early or intermediate mixed dentition phase
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • History of or active engagement in orofacial myofunctional therapy (OMT)
• • History of or active engagement in orthodontic therapy
• • Congenital abnormalities, syndromes, or surgical needs affecting the oral and maxillofacial region
• • Disorders affecting motor or cognitive development
• • Current or recent (\< 3 months) non-nutritive sucking habits