“Can you fix an open bite without jaw surgery?”

The answer to this question depends on the severity of the open bite. Minor open bites can be fixed with crowns or other restorative procedures. More severe cases can be fixed with orthodontics (Braces). Finally, very severe cases will need surgery for correction. Bottom line is that if you are not certain or concerned, you should get a second opinion before doing surgery.

Non-surgical correction of anterior open bite malocclusion is commonly achieved by dental extrusion through the use of either inter-maxillary elastics or a combination of extractions and elastic wear.

There are two types: Anterior and Posterior. (Front teeth vs. Back teeth).

For Anterior open bite, again there are two categories:

1. Dental - For children, habit-breaking appliances coupled with myofunctional appliances. Braces can also help with severe proclination of upper front teeth. For adults, fixed orthodontics (braces) are an option.

2. Skeletal - If it is skeletal and it is severe, you may need surgery. Sometimes, if the skeletal defects are minimal, some fixed orthodontics can be given.

For Posterior open bite, the treatment is -

a. Habit breaking for tongue thrusting habit.
b. Crowns to enhance the height of natural dentition.

So yes, if the defect is not skeletal, fixed orthodontics (braces) can help. You might also want to consider cosmetic dental treatment like veneers and crowns.