What is Open Bite
5 minute read
A common dental issue found across all ages, an open bite is where the top and bottom teeth do not come together when your jaws are closed. There are many treatments that can align your teeth and fix your open bite.
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Why Should I Fix My Open Bite?
While open bites are a liveable condition, this misalignment comes with side effects. First of all, you may experience difficulty chewing, alongside jaw pain and interference with your speech. Open bites can also cause food to become trapped in-between the teeth, leading to tooth decay and gum disease. Another side effect is tooth wear, as the jaws are not coming into contact properly.
The Causes Of Open Bite
Childhood habits are a significant cause of open bite. Excessive dummy use and thumb sucking places a strain on teeth, causing the formation of an open bite. Other habits that can lead to an open bite include nail biting, tongue thrusting and teeth grinding (bruxism). Like many other misalignments open bites may be hereditary, meaning that if other family members have it, you are more likely to develop one.
Treatment Options
If you are wanting to fix your open bite, there are many dental procedures to choose from to help you achieve your dream smile.
Braces & Aligners
Both of these procedures work in a similar way, exerting pressure on your teeth to gradually move them into their correct position.
Clear aligners are ideal for individuals looking to discreetly straighten and align their teeth. Designed to be worn 20-22 hours per day, these clear trays can be removed while you eat and clean your teeth.
In comparison, fixed braces are attached to your teeth with wires and brackets. This orthodontic treatment cannot be removed without your dentist. For those with a more severe open bite, braces for teeth may be the best option as they are generally faster and more effective.
We recommend wearing retainers after your treatment to help protect your newly aligned smile.
Tooth Extraction
When a tooth is extracted, it gives your remaining teeth the space they need to move back into their correct position. This surgical procedure is sometimes necessary for dental treatments such as braces to be successful. Please note that, if you have a tooth missing, you cannot wear aligners.
Dental Surgery
Surgery may be recommended for those with a severe open bite. Done under general anaesthesia, your jaw is repositioned to fix the misalignment. This will also help you to chew properly and potentially correct the symmetry of your face. Consult with your dentist to see if surgery is necessary.
Conclusion:
An open bite can be fixed in a variety of ways. Consult with your dentist to see which option is best for you in order to perfect your smile.