An open bite is a common orthodontic problem in which the upper and lower teeth do not align properly while the mouth is closed.
This condition can impair dental health and appearance, making it challenging to chew, bite, or even speak clearly. Fortunately, by progressively reversing the misalignment and restoring a functional, confident smile, open bite braces provide an efficient treatment.
In this article, we’ll define an open bite, explore its causes, describe the potential damage it may cause if left untreated, and go over the many types of braces used to treat this issue.
Table of Contents
What Is An Open Bite?
An open bite is a kind of malocclusion, or tooth misalignment, in which there is a noticeable gap between the upper and lower teeth when the mouth is closed.
There are two types of open bites: an anterior open bite, which happens with the front teeth, and a posterior open bite, which happens with the rear teeth.
An open bite can result from skeletal problems, temporomandibular joint (TMJ) abnormalities, thumb-sucking or extended pacifier usage during childhood, or genetic causes.
Open bites can result in higher wear on the teeth that make contact, speech problems, and trouble biting and eating.
What Causes An Open Bite?
An open bite can result from skeletal, dental, or soft tissue problems, or occasionally from a combination of these.
- Genetics: An open bite can result from skeletal problems that impact bone formation and are inherited from a parent and passed on to a child.
- Poor oral habits: Poor oral habits that impact dental development can be the cause of an open bite. Lip sucking, tongue thrusting, and thumb sucking are some of these behaviors.
- Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ): Disorders such as TMJ can alter the structure of the joint, which can affect the posture of the jaw and result in an open bite.
What Symptoms Point To an Open Bite?
The inability to completely close the mouth is a typical and noticeable symptom of an open bite. The top and bottom arches’ front and rear teeth are not in contact.
Other malocclusions and signs of an open bite include:
- Issues with swallowing and chewing.
- Less prominent chin.
- An unattractive smile.
- Difficulty using the front teeth to bite down on food.
- Tooth misalignment issues with speech, such as a lisp.
Can an Open Bite Damage The Teeth?
Yes, it can. Problems with the mouth, teeth, and overall health can result from an open bite. It leaves an unflattering smile as well.
Over time, an open bite may get worse, raising the possibility of issues including gum disease and excessive wear and tear on the teeth that support pressure.
An open bite can also lead to the following additional issues:
- Speech issues.
- Snoring.
- Sleep issues.
- Gum disease.
- Both earaches and headaches.
- Issues or discomfort when biting or chewing.
- Dysfunction of the temporomandibular joint (TMD).
- Decay of the teeth.
- Digestive problems.
This is why it’s essential to fix an open bite, and the best way to do that is with open bite braces.
Types of Open Bite Braces
At your consultation session with Davinci Dental Clinic, the orthodontist will go over your treatment choices with you, including open bite braces.
An open bite can be fixed with a variety of techniques, so make sure the orthodontist you see uses modern equipment to provide you with the best treatment available.
Treatment options for open bites include:
Braces
Braces are an effective and reasonably priced open bite restoration method. There are several varieties of braces, including lingual, ceramic, and metal braces. The diagnosis will determine the best course of action for treating an open bite. Braces provide a beautiful smile, are easy to maintain, and work well.
Clear Invisalign aligners
Clear aligners are a set of trays used to correct misalignment issues in the mouth, such as an open bite. They are worn for about 22 hours a day and can only be taken out to eat or drink.
When given by a qualified Invisalign provider, Invisalign successfully corrects an open bite. Invisalign is a successful treatment for orthodontic problems, including open bites in adults and teens.
Jaw surgery
Jaw surgery could be required if the open bite is severe. You must visit a maxillofacial surgeon who collaborates closely with an orthodontist. A significant open bite can be successfully corrected with orthodontics and jaw surgery.
Retainers
The teeth are protected by retainers after orthodontic treatment. To maintain your smile and avoid a relapse, the orthodontist will offer you a set of retainers after your orthodontic treatment, whether you had braces or Invisalign. Make sure you follow your orthodontist’s instructions when wearing the retainers to get the best results.
Read More: Clear Retainer Cost.
Conclusion
Not only can an open bite affect your smile, but it can also cause problems with speaking, eating, and even your general dental health.
The good news is that you can progressively realign your teeth and restore their appropriate function with the use of modern orthodontic treatments, particularly open bite braces.
There is a treatment choice to meet the demands of every patient, whether it be regular braces, Invisalign clear aligners, or, in more extreme situations, orthodontics plus jaw surgery.
You may choose the best course of action to close your open bite and have a more confident, healthy smile by speaking with a skilled orthodontist.
Read More: Clear Braces Price.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get braces for my open bite?
There are several ways to cure an open bite with orthodontics, such as using metal braces, ceramic braces, or clear aligners. In extreme situations, correcting the underlying skeletal problems that are producing the open bite may also need surgical orthodontics.
What's the best age to fix an open bite?
In order to prevent issues in maturity, children between the ages of 6 and 12 who are in the growth period of their lives are treated with preventive orthodontics, such as wearing different types of braces to correct the issue.
Does fixing an open bite change face shape?
Yes, correcting an open bite can change the shape of the face, especially by aligning the jawline and profile. This is particularly apparent when jaw surgery is used to repair skeletal defects.
