Learn More About
Bite Problems
You may not realise it, but your bite plays an important role in your oral health. An improper fit between the top and bottom teeth can lead to different kinds of malocclusion or bite problems. If you’re concerned that you may have a bite problem, please consult a dentist.
If You're Dealing with Bite Problems, We'll Be There to Provide the Individualised Care and Support You Need.
A bite problem is when the lower and upper teeth don’t fit together properly. Also called malocclusion, bite problems can cause some serious issues, both aesthetically and functionally.
When your teeth are misaligned, you may feel self-conscious about your appearance and have difficulty chewing or speaking. In addition, misaligned teeth can put unnecessary stress on the jaw joint, leading to pain and tenderness. Without treatment, malocclusion can also lead to occlusal disease, which is a condition that causes the wear and tear or loosening of the teeth.
Common Causes of Bite Problems
- Genetics plays a role in bite problems. If you have a family history of such problems, you may be more likely to experience them yourself.
- Early loss of baby teeth can cause bite problems because the remaining teeth may shift into empty spaces, resulting in an improper bite.
- Thumb sucking, tongue thrusting, and prolonged bottle or pacifier use can also cause bite problems. These bad habits put pressure on the teeth and jaws, causing them to misalign over time.
- Improper fit of dental restorations can also cause bite problems. If your dentures, bridges, or other dental appliances don’t fit properly, they can throw off your bite and cause pain and inflammation.
- Tooth loss can also cause bite problems because the remaining teeth may shift into the space, resulting in an improper bite.
Dental Services that Can Address Bite Problems
Smile Makeovers
Smile makeovers are designed to address specific concerns you may have about your teeth. Whether your goal is to improve your bite or achieve a more aesthetic look, a personalised smile makeover treatment plan can help you achieve your smile goals.
Dental Bridges
By keeping the remaining teeth from moving into the space left by the missing tooth or teeth, dental bridges help to distribute the force of your bite more evenly.
Dental Crowns
Dental crowns allow you to chew and bite comfortably by supporting unhealthy teeth and restoring their function.
Clear Aligners
The clear aligner treatment is an orthodontic procedure that uses aligner trays made of clear plastic to gradually move teeth into their proper positions. They are removable and virtually invisible, making them a popular treatment choice for adults and teens who want to address their bite issues without wearing traditional metal braces.
Tooth Extraction
If your teeth are crowding each other or your bite is off, it may be necessary to have one or more teeth extracted to help realign your bite.
Wisdom Teeth Removal
Wisdom teeth can eventually lead to bite issues because they tend to push the other teeth out of alignment. Having your wisdom teeth removed can prevent bite problems.
Frequently Asked Questions about Bite Problems
Your dentist is the most qualified to assess whether or not your bite is healthy. They will periodically check the alignment of your teeth and jaws. In a healthy bite, the upper teeth fit slightly over the lower teeth, and the points of your molars fit snugly into the grooves of the opposing molars. If you have any pain or discomfort when biting down, that’s a sign that your bite might be off.
The answer depends on the bite problem, its severity, and the treatment plan. For milder cases, it might only take a few months to see results. For more severe bite problems, it could take at least two years. Multiple treatments may sometimes be necessary to achieve the desired results.
Managing bite problems starts at home with brushing your teeth, making sure that the teeth do not develop a cavity while waiting for treatment. Brush at least twice a day for two minutes each time. Be sure you are using toothpaste with fluoride and paying attention to all areas of your mouth, including along your gumline. Flossing is also important in addition to brushing. You should also see your dentist at least twice a year for check-ups and cleanings as they can catch any problems early and help you manage your bite.
- Tooth decay
- Gum disease
- Tooth wear-and-tear
- Tooth loss
- Headaches and muscle tension
- Difficulty chewing
- Difficulty speaking clearly
- Unbalanced facial appearance
Get a Smile that Stands Out
At AP Dental, we are proud to offer a wide range of dental services to meet the needs of our patients. From professional cleanings and dental fillings to more complex procedures, we are here to help you maintain a brighter, healthier smile. Book your appointment today and see the difference our team can make.
