Dental Bite - Correction Treatment
CALL US NOWWhat is Your Bite?
The manner in which your upper and lower teeth align together when you close your mouth is referred to as your bite. There are many different versions of bite but it is classified in 3 basic groups.
Class 1- the upper teeth only very marginally protrude over your bottom teeth
Class 2 – the upper teeth significantly protrude over your bottom teeth
Class 3 In this instance the situation is reversed and the bottom teeth protrude over your top teeth
Types of Bite Problems (Malocclusions)
Overbite
An overbite is when the top teeth excessively overlap the bottom teeth in a vertical direction. Overjet An over jet is when the top teeth overlap the lower teeth in a horizontal direction. Closed Bite This is when there is not enough space between the top and bottom teeth when you bite down, and it sometimes significant in particular problems including TMJ (jaw joint) pain.
Open Bite
This is when there is a gap between your teeth when you bite down where the top and lower teeth fail to meet one another. Commonly, this happens with the front teeth only but it can also affect back teeth in some cases. This type of bite issue can be hereditary or may be the result of habits like thumb or finger sucking.
Crossbite (sometimes called Scissors bite)
This type of malocclusion occurs when the top teeth bite inside the bottom teeth and can lead to problems with chewing in addition to tooth wear and problems with function.
Deep Bite
This type of bite problem is when the upper teeth overlap the lower teeth too much, which can lead to a number of problems. This is often associated with develop Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMD), which is a painful condition that affects the jaw. Having a deep bite condition may also put you at risk of damaging your gums or even developing gum disease. The excess overlapping can make it difficult to brush and clean properly between the teeth, which can lead to build up of bacteria and possibly infection. If you have gum disease, your dentist may recommend a deeper cleaning than traditional scaling called root planing. In severe cases, surgery may be needed to correct the problem. A deep bite can also be responsible for causing your teeth to wear down prematurely. The excess forces can lead to chips and cracks in your teeth.
Possible Complications From Untreated Bite Problems
Tooth Decay and Gum Disease
When your teeth are not properly aligned, it can prove much more difficult to clean them properly. This can lead to a greater risk of tooth decay and gum disease.
Injury to the Teeth
If your teeth are not properly aligned, you may be at higher risk for chipping or breaking a tooth.
Jaw Problems
If your bite is not properly aligned, it can put a lot of stress on your jaw, which in turn, can lead to pain and difficulty opening and closing your mouth. In severe cases, it can even produce TMJ disorders.
Reasons to seek Treatment for an Abnormal Bite?
An abnormal bite can potentially lead to many kinds of dental health issues.
These include:
- Tooth wear and fractures
- Pain and sensitivity
- Jaw joint problems
- Muscle pain
- Headaches
Treating an abnormal bite can help to alleviate these problems, restoring your teeth’s normal function.
Christie Dental – Our Dental Bite Treatment Options
We will offer you the best treatment options available based on your particular type of bite issue and your unique teeth and gum anatomy. This way you will know what to expect before committing to the treatment plan offered to you. Often this kind of therapy is used to create the best form and function available before complex restorative work.
IMPORTANT NOTICE BEFORE BOOKING AN APPOINTMENT
***Attention Non-English Speaking Patients***
If you are unable to communicate effectively in the English language, please bring someone with you who can communicate with us on your behalf when attending your dental appointment