Sometimes, a bad bite is the result of crooked or overcrowded teeth that only impact appearance. In other cases, a person’s bite can lead to jaw pain or headaches. A bad bite means that your upper and lower teeth don’t fit together properly. Consequently, you may move your jaw unnaturally in order to chew, which can lead to discomfort. A dentist in Brandon serving Sioux Falls will assess your bite and develop a plan for adjustment, so your smile is straight and you are no longer in pain. Read on to learn about what your dentist may recommend.
Evaluating Your Bite
The first step in adjusting a bite involves determining what’s causing the problem in the first place. To do this, you dentist will evaluate your bite and your jaw. Digital X-rays, photographs, measurements of your mouth and molds may be necessary. With this information, the dentist will come up with a treatment plan.
Adjusting Your Bite
Tooth misalignment is often the root cause of a bad bite. Therefore, moving teeth into their proper position will balance the alignment and correct the bite. For some people, having their bite adjusted means wearing orthodontic braces. Either traditional braces or clear aligners may be options.
Traditional braces used metal brackets and arch wires to guide teeth into alignment. The brackets are bonded to the facial side of teeth and the wire is guided through the brackets. As the wires are changed throughout the course of treatment, teeth begin to move into alignment.
Alternatively, clear orthodontic aligners may be an option. These are clear plastic trays that are practically invisible. In addition, they’re removable, so you’ll be able to eat your regular diet and brush and floss without anything in the way.
Clear orthodontic aligners work a lot like traditional braces, applying gentle force to move your teeth. Most treatment cases take between six to 24 months.
Reconstructing Teeth for a Healthy Bite
Tooth damage and tooth loss can also lead to a bad bite. If a tooth is broken or unusually worn, then your dentist may recommend a dental crown. This prosthetic rebuilds the tooth, which can help restore balance to your bite.
In the case of missing teeth, a crown and bridge or dental implant may be the solution. Bridges fill the gap in your smile with artificial teeth. Dental implants replace missing teeth with a post embedded in your jaw to secure a prosthetic tooth in place.
See your dentist right away if your bite becomes unbalanced because of a broken or missing tooth. Ignoring the problem can result in shifting teeth, which can result in more serious bite problems down the road.
About Wehrkamp Dentistry
Since 1981, Wehrkamp Dentistry has helped the community achieve healthy, beautiful smiles. We not only work to ensure that your mouth stays healthy, but help you promote your appearance as well. Using orthodontics and restorative dentistry, we can treat your bite and restore your confidence. If you are ready to transform the appearance of your teeth, contact our office today to schedule a consultation.