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Orthodontics · single question

What can cause anterior open bite, EXCEPT?

  1. Prolonged pacifier use
  2. Airway obstruction
  3. Tongue thrust
  4. Microglossia
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Correct answer: C. Tongue thrust

  • A. Incorrect — this CAN cause open bite. Mouth breathing/airway obstruction leads to altered tongue posture and open bite.
  • B. Incorrect — this CAN cause open bite. Prolonged pacifier/digit sucking creates anterior open bite in developing dentition.
  • C. Correct — this is the EXCEPTION. Microglossia (abnormally SMALL tongue) does not cause anterior open bite. MACROglossia (large tongue) pushes teeth and can cause open bite.
  • D. Incorrect — this CAN cause open bite. Tongue thrust habit during swallowing prevents anterior tooth eruption.

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