INBDE (Integrated National Board Dental Examination) Practice Exam

What type of malocclusion is high-pull headgear used to correct?

1. class 1 normal bite

2. class 2 open bite

3. class 2 deep bite

4. class 3 maxillary deficiency

The correct answer is: class 2 open bite

High-pull headgear is commonly used to correct a class 2 open bite. Class 2 malocclusion refers to an abnormal relationship between the upper and lower teeth where the upper teeth are positioned in front of the lower teeth (overjet). An open bite specifically refers to a lack of vertical overlap between the upper and lower front teeth when the back teeth are touching. By applying force in an upward and backward direction, high-pull headgear helps to modify the growth pattern of the upper jaw and correct the open bite. Regarding the other options: A. Class 1 normal bite does not typically require the use of high-pull headgear for correction. C. Class 2 deep bite involves excessive vertical overlap of the upper front teeth over the lower front teeth, which is not addressed by high-pull headgear. D. Class 3 malocclusion with maxillary deficiency is typically treated with different orthodontic interventions such as chin cups or facemasks to address the deficiency in the upper jaw.