If you have noticed differences in your child’s dental bite or have always wanted to correct your own, orthodontics can help. We can correct bite issues in patients of all ages, though the process is fastest and easiest at a younger age.
What a Proper Dental Bite Looks Like
Proper tooth alignment supports a balanced jaw position and better function. When teeth are maloccluded or misaligned, issues like excess wear, hygiene challenges, and jaw pain can result.
An ideal dental bite is symmetrical and harmonious with an attractive appearance and enhanced function. With the mouth closed, the upper teeth slightly overlap the lower teeth. The upper teeth cover about a third of the lower tooth, creating a natural but mild overbite.
A proper dental bite creates balanced contact with the opposing tooth. Each tooth should touch its counterpart evenly, distributing chewing force evenly and preventing excessive tooth wear.
The jaws should close naturally, with no sliding or shifting. TMJ (temporomandibular joint) pain should be absent, along with the clicking and popping noises that sometimes accompany this syndrome. At rest, the teeth should not clench together but should instead allow a slight space.
Types of Bite Problems
There are four main categories of dental bite issues:
Overbite
An overbite means that the top front teeth jut out past the lower teeth. While this is the most common type of bite issue and may not look like it would cause severe problems, please schedule an orthodontic evaluation if you notice it in yourself or your child.
Underbite
An underbite is the opposite of an overbite, in which the lower teeth are visible in front of the upper teeth.
Crossbite
Crossbites happen when one or more upper teeth close within the arch of lower teeth, rather than outside it. A crossbite can happen in the front, in the back, or at the sides of the mouth.
Open Bite
In patients with an open bite, the teeth do not meet even when the mouth is closed. This issue is one of the most severe bite difficulties that could require lengthy treatment.
Problems Often Caused By Dental Bite Differences
Many patients may mistakenly believe that correcting a dental bite issue is cosmetic and not necessary for a healthy smile. However, untreated dental bite problems can have far-reaching consequences. For example, these are a few of the conditions that could stem from dental bite problems:
- TMJ (temporomandibular joint) pain and stiffness
- Bruxism (teeth grinding)
- Headaches
- Sleep issues
- Uneven tooth wear
- Incomplete chewing
- Speech issues
- Dry mouth, which can lead to a higher risk of tooth decay and gum disease
- Tooth chipping and breakage
- Damage to existing restorations like crowns and fillings
How Orthodontists Correct Dental Bite Issues
When correcting dental bite issues, your orthodontist has multiple options. For young children, interceptive or Phase 1 orthodontics can soften the effects of a bite issue before the permanent teeth fully erupt. Using tools like palatal expanders and space maintainers, orthodontists can maximize the chance of a successful correction.
For teens and adults, orthodontists typically use standard braces to correct bite differences. Some mild to moderate bite issues can be corrected with clear aligners, attachments, and elastics. Braces are the most durable, versatile option.
To correct a bite issue, your orthodontist will most likely use elastic bands with your standard braces. The bands gently push or pull misaligned teeth into new positions, shifting your bite and ensuring your teeth meet as they should. In some cases, braces can also correct jaw issues, but most adult patients need surgery to correct jaw formation differences.
Correcting Your Dental Bite Protects Your Oral Health
If you have a dental bite issue, you may feel self-conscious about your smile. Let us help you overcome the discomfort and dental issues caused by misaligned teeth and create a smile that makes you feel proud every time you look in the mirror, while also improving your oral health.
Frequently Asked Questions About Orthodontics
How long does it take to correct a bite issue using braces?
It typically takes about 12 months to 2 ½ years to correct a bite issue with this method. Gradual tooth movement makes the process gentler and creates long-lasting results. After treatment, wearing a retainer indefinitely is a must to protect your investment of time and money.
What are some of the causes of dental bite issues?
Jaw shape and size can be a major contributing factor. If there isn't enough room for the teeth to erupt, they may come in crooked and disrupt the bite. Another cause is thumb- or finger-sucking after age 3 or 4. Prolonged sucking can disrupt tooth alignment, causing bite difficulties later in life.
Do orthodontists still use headgear for bite problems?
Headgear is less common than it was decades ago, but it remains a useful tool for more severe bite and jaw formation issues.
Why can’t I leave my child’s bite problem alone?
A bite issue may seem cosmetic on the surface, but when you realize what else happens to your child’s oral and overall health, you may feel more inclined to bring them in for an evaluation. Correcting your child’s bite issue as early as possible helps them maintain a healthier mouth for a lifetime.
Which is better for an overbite: clear aligners or braces?
Our doctors will work with you to determine which method works best for your individual situation. Clear aligners may be a better choice with a mild to moderate bite problem and a dedicated patient committed to success.
Hass Family Orthodontics successfully treats mild, moderate, and severe bite issues every day. We want to help you or your child smile without worry and will do everything we can to ensure success. Please contact us to book your evaluation today!