Bite Corrections
Dental malocclusions, including overbites, underbites, and open bites can be effectively addressed through orthodontic treatments at Boggs Dentistry in Granite Falls, NC.
Overbite Correction
Overbite is frequent in both children and adults. The form and/or size of the jaw or teeth is the most typical cause of an overjet. There may be too much or too little space in the jaw region to fit one’s teeth. If an overjet is not addressed, teeth might cluster together and grow crooked, causing more difficulties.
Overbites are a form of malocclusion, which is an irregular or rough contact between the upper and lower teeth. When the upper and lower teeth align, chewing and biting are easier. If they are misaligned, it can lead to worn enamel, cracked and broken teeth, jaw pain, and a variety of other symptoms. If you believe your child is experiencing an overbite, call our office today to schedule an appointment!
Open Bite Correction
An open bite is when the top and bottom teeth don’t touch at the front or back of the mouth when the jaw is fully shut, leaving a space between them. Open bites are a form of malocclusion, or “bad bite”: a variety of dental issues that cause the teeth to align improperly, causing problems when biting down, and a host of other related issues, including pain, oral hygiene issues, and tooth and gum decay.
An open bite can be hard to treat, but we can fix it with different types of braces and/or clear aligners like Invisalign®. If you or your child has an open bite, call our office today to schedule an appointment so that you or your child can smile and bite properly.
Underbite Correction
An underbite can affect you at different stages in your life and can also be caused by multiple different factors. While underbites are best treated while the jaw is still developing, many adults live with this type of misaligned jaw and suffer from TMJ, headaches, chronic pain, and more. If you believe you or your child is experiencing underbite, call our office to schedule an appointment 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.