Bite Corrections
Dental malocclusions, including overbites, underbites, and open bites can be effectively addressed through orthodontic treatments at Link Dental Excellence in Culver City, CA.
Overbite Correction
Overbites are common in both children and adults. The most typical cause of an overbite is the jaw or teeth’ form and/or size. It can happen when there is too much or too little space in the jaw region to fit one’s teeth properly. If an overbite is not treated, teeth may become crowded or grow crooked, leading to more problems. An overbite is a malocclusion, an irregular or rough contact between the upper and lower teeth. Proper alignment of the teeth makes chewing and biting easier. When they are misaligned, it can result in worn enamel, cracked and broken teeth, jaw pain, and other symptoms. If you suspect your child has an overbite, we recommend scheduling an appointment with our office today. We will happily help you address your concerns and provide the necessary treatment to ensure proper dental health.
Open Bite Correction
An open bite is a dental issue where the top and bottom teeth do not touch each other when the jaw is closed, creating a gap between them. This is known as a malocclusion or a “bad bite.” Misaligned teeth can cause various dental problems, including discomfort, difficulties in biting, poor oral hygiene, and tooth and gum decay.
Although it can be challenging to treat, different braces or clear aligners like Invisalign® can help fix an open bite. If you or your child has this condition, please get in touch with our office to schedule an appointment. We will help you to smile and bite properly again.
Underbite Correction
Underbites can occur at different stages of life and can be caused by various factors. Although it is best to treat underbites while the jaw is still developing, many adults live with this type of misaligned jaw and suffer from TMJ, headaches, chronic pain, and other related problems. If you suspect that you or your child is experiencing an underbite, please contact our office and schedule an appointment with us today!
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What is malocclusion?
Malocclusion refers to the misalignment of teeth in the upper and lower jaws, preventing them from fitting together properly when you bite. It’s also commonly known as a “bad bite.”
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Are deep bites and overbites the same?
A deep bite is a malocclusion in which the upper front teeth excessively overlap the bottom front teeth when the back teeth are closed. This is also called an overbite or closed bite.
When the lower jaw is shorter than the upper jaw, the upper teeth are further “forward,” and the lower teeth keep growing until they hit the back of the upper teeth (the cingulate) or the roof of the mouth. Also, as the lower front teeth grow up under the upper front teeth, they often get pushed together, which can cause crowding and alignment problems.
Another thing that can cause a deep bite is the loss of a lower tooth. This makes the lower jaw look like it is shorter than usual. Lastly, the bite can get deeper if the muscles used to bite are very strong. This is common in people who clench or grind their teeth.
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Does an open bite get worse over time?
Yes, absolutely. Any orthodontic problem, like an open bite, that is not fixed will get worse over time. It is very important to see an experienced orthodontist as soon as possible who can fix your or your child’s open bite. This will prevent further damage to the teeth and gums and pain or discomfort when you or your child chews, bites, or swallows.
Children with open bites will have the best and most long-lasting results if they receive care by age 7.
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What are the main causes of underbites?
The causes of underbites can vary and may include:
Genetics: Did you know that underbites are most commonly inherited? Genetics help determine the shape and size of your teeth and jaw, meaning that overcrowded teeth or a misaligned jaw are likely inherited from other family members. If your underbite is due to genetics, prevention is not generally possible.
Injury: Serious facial injuries can cause lasting damage to the jaw. While it’s possible to surgically repair broken jaw bones, teeth may not always align post-surgery. This can potentially lead to an underbite.
More Questions?
If you have more questions about bite corrections, please contact our office, and we will be happy to discuss further.
