Bite problems affect millions of people and can impact everything from chewing and speaking to facial aesthetics and long-term oral health. These conditions, known as malocclusions, occur when teeth don’t align properly when the mouth closes. Understanding the different types of bite issues and their treatment options helps patients make informed decisions about improving their oral health and smile.
At Sonrisa Family Dental, our orthodontic team specializes in diagnosing and treating all types of bite problems using the latest techniques and technologies. We understand that each patient’s needs are unique, which is why we develop personalized treatment plans that address both functional concerns and aesthetic goals. We accept most major insurance plans, including Medicaid and Medicare, for orthodontic services.
Understanding Bite Problems
A bad bite, called a “malocclusion,” happens when teeth meet improperly or don’t meet at all. When left untreated, these conditions can lead to excessive tooth wear, jaw pain, difficulty eating certain foods, and an increased risk of tooth decay or gum disease. Early identification and treatment often produce better outcomes and may prevent more complex problems from developing.
Modern orthodontic treatment offers numerous options for correcting bite problems, from traditional braces to clear aligners and surgical interventions. The choice of treatment depends on factors like the type and severity of the bite problem, patient age, lifestyle considerations, and personal preferences.
Overbites: When Upper Teeth Overlap Too Much
An overbite occurs when the upper front teeth significantly overlap the lower front teeth when biting down. While a small amount of overlap is normal, excessive overbite can cause problems with function and appearance. Severe overbites may cause the lower teeth to bite into the roof of the mouth, leading to discomfort and potential tissue damage.
For mild to moderate overbites, orthodontic treatment with braces or clear aligners can gradually move teeth into proper alignment. More severe cases may require additional interventions like tooth extraction or jaw surgery. Treatment typically takes 18 to 30 months, with patients noticing improvements within the first few months.
Underbites: When Lower Teeth Protrude Forward
Underbites occur when the lower front teeth extend beyond the upper front teeth, often giving the appearance of a protruding lower jaw. This condition can affect chewing efficiency, speech clarity, and facial aesthetics. Early treatment during childhood can sometimes guide jaw growth and prevent more complex problems from developing.
Treatment often involves moving the upper teeth forward and the lower teeth backward to achieve proper alignment. Some underbites stem from habits like tongue thrusting, which may require additional interventions beyond orthodontic treatment.
Crossbites: When Teeth Don’t Line Up Properly
A crossbite is a prevalent form of malocclusion, or teeth misalignment, where the upper teeth sit inside the lower teeth, or the upper back teeth bite completely outside of the lower teeth. This condition can affect individual teeth or entire sections of the bite, potentially causing uneven tooth wear and jaw shifting over time.
Different crossbite patterns require specific treatment approaches:
- Anterior crossbites: These crossbites often respond well to early intervention with removable appliances or limited orthodontic treatment to guide teeth into their proper position.
- Posterior crossbites: These crossbites may require palatal expansion to widen the upper jaw, followed by orthodontic treatment to align individual teeth properly.
- Unilateral crossbites: Crossbites affecting one side of the mouth need careful evaluation to determine if the jaw shifts during closure.
- Single tooth crossbites: These crossbites can often be corrected quickly with targeted orthodontic movement, preventing more complex problems from developing.
Early intervention often produces the best results, as it can guide proper jaw development and prevent compensation patterns from becoming established.
Open Bites: When Teeth Don’t Meet
An open bite occurs when the upper and lower teeth don’t touch when the mouth closes, leaving a gap between them. This condition can interfere with proper chewing and speech development, and may contribute to excessive wear on the teeth that do make contact.
Habits like thumb sucking, tongue thrusting, or prolonged pacifier use often contribute to open bite development. Treatment varies depending on the cause and severity, with habit modification often necessary before or during orthodontic treatment. Speech therapy may be recommended to retrain tongue position and ensure stable, long-term results.
Get Professional Bite Correction
Addressing bite problems improves both oral health and quality of life through better function and enhanced appearance. Professional evaluation helps determine the best treatment approach for each individual’s specific needs and goals. Early intervention often provides the most conservative and effective treatment options.
At Sonrisa Family Dental, our experienced orthodontic team provides comprehensive bite correction using proven techniques and modern technology. We work with patients of all ages to develop treatment plans that fit their lifestyle and budget, accepting most major insurance plans, including Medicaid and Medicare for orthodontic services. Visit our contact form to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward a healthier, more confident smile.