To review the etiology and pathogenesis of anterior open bite malocclusion.Review of literature was affected through Pubmed, Google scholar and Science direct. References identified from articles found from the primary search were also reviewed.Published data on etiology and pathogenesis of anterior open bite over the last five decades (1960-2009) were utilised.Full articles, abstracts and relevant book chapters were read and analysed to determine the relevant material for this article.All relevant articles were reviewed in full and necessary information eextracted as necessary.A clear understanding of the etiology and pathogenesis of anterior open bite is essential in the diagnosis, prevention and management of this malocclusion.