Combined orthodontic-orthognathic management of a patient with generalized short root anomaly and anterior open bite

Short root anomaly is a rare dental disorder affecting tooth root development. It is characterized by reduced root-to-crown ratios (1:1 or less) and rounded apices. The short roots introduce a potential complication during orthodontic treatment. This case report describes managing a girl with generalized short root anomaly, an open bite, impacted maxillary canines, and a bilateral crossbite. In the first phase of treatment, the maxillary canines were extracted, and the transverse discrepancy was corrected with a bone-borne transpalatal distractor. In the second phase of treatment, a mandibular lateral incisor was removed, fixed appliances were placed in the mandibular arch, and bimaxillary orthognathic surgery was performed. A satisfactory result was obtained without further root shortening, adequate smile esthetics, and 2.5-year posttreatment stability.