Occlusion is how your lower and upper jaw fits together. For most patients, it is a natural fit. However, for some patients, their teeth are not properly aligned and they have traumatic occlusion, also known as a “bad bite.” There is not enough space for all the teeth to be in line. This affects how their mouths function, like when they chew, and their smiles. Treating this issue is something that your Leawood, KS, dentist can help you with if you experience it.
What Are Its Signs And Symptoms?
While the following signs and symptoms can be caused by other issues, they still should be considered. If you are experiencing any of these, please see us so that we can prescribe the correct preventive care for you.
- Pain while biting or chewing
- Fractured teeth or fillings
- Teeth that have shifted or feel loose
- Jaw pain
- Inflamed gum tissue
Why Should It Be Treated?
There is a greater chance of periodontal disease if a bad bite is left untreated. The teeth that are not aligned can help cause this because the bite pressure from the other teeth is increased and they become loose and sometimes diseased.
What Is The Treatment Like For It?
Traumatic occlusion is usually treated with an occlusal equilibration procedure. This is where the teeth’s biting and chewing surfaces are sculpted down to help create proper alignment and balance. This causes less pressure on individual teeth, which makes them less likely to become weak or infected. Another procedure sometimes prescribed is occlusal restoration. This treatment replaces crooked teeth through restorative dentistry to help improve a mouth’s normal function. Jaw repositioners are devices used, as well, for treatment. Over time, they are tightened and adjusted, like braces, to achieve the tooth position needed to alleviate the issue.
How Else Is It Treated?
While traumatic occlusion is treated by braces, crowns, or Invisalign®, occlusal adjustment, orthodontics, and orthognathics are other ways to treat it.
- Occlusal Adjustment — Much like occlusal equilibration, this treatment is used when a patient grinds or clenches their teeth at night, has teeth that are loose or moving, or has teeth that are sensitive to hot or cold temperatures.
- Orthodontics — If the teeth need to be straightened, then braces are prescribed.
- Orthognathics — This is defined as how well the lower and upper jaw aligns. If orthognathic surgery is needed, it is because the bone needs to be corrected more so than having the teeth straightened.
Contact Us To Find Out More About Your Bite
If you feel like your bite doesn’t fit or if it is giving you discomfort, we can help. To learn more, schedule an appointment with us by calling Dreem Dentistry in Leawood, KS, today at 913-681-5500. We also serve patients who live in Overland Park and all surrounding communities.
