Dental Bites
There are several different types of dental bites, also known as occlusion. Here are some common types:
- Overbite: When the upper front teeth overlap significantly with the lower front teeth.
- Underbite: When the lower front teeth overlap significantly with the upper front teeth.
- Crossbite: When the upper teeth sit inside the lower teeth, instead of outside them.
- Open bite: When the upper and lower teeth do not meet when the mouth is closed.
- Deep bite: When the upper front teeth cover the majority of the lower front teeth when the mouth is closed.
- Crowding: When there is not enough space in the mouth for all the teeth, causing them to overlap or twist.
- Spacing: When there are gaps between the teeth, usually caused by missing teeth or small teeth.
It’s important to note that many people have variations of these bites that are considered normal and may not require treatment. However, severe cases of dental bites can cause problems with chewing, speech, and overall oral health, and may require orthodontic treatment to correct.
How to perfect your bite?
The treatment for dental bites or occlusion depends on the type and severity of the problem. Here are some common methods used to fix dental bites:
- Braces: Braces are the most common treatment for fixing dental bites. They use brackets and wires to apply pressure to the teeth and move them into the correct position.
- Aligners: Clear aligners, such as Invisalign, can also be used to fix dental bites. They work similarly to braces, but are more discreet and removable.
- Jaw surgery: In cases where the problem is caused by a misaligned jaw, surgery may be necessary to correct the issue.
- Tooth extraction: In some cases, removing one or more teeth may be necessary to create enough space in the mouth to correct a bite problem.
- Retainers: After braces or aligners, a retainer may be necessary to maintain the corrected position of the teeth.
It’s important to consult with a qualified orthodontist or dentist to determine the best course of treatment for your specific dental bite problem.
How long is the treatment for fixing dental bites?
The duration of orthodontic treatment for fixing dental bites depends on the severity of the problem, the type of treatment used, and the individual patient’s response to treatment. In general, the length of treatment can range from several months to several years.
For mild to moderate cases, treatment with braces or aligners may take anywhere from 6 months to 2 years. In more severe cases, treatment may take longer, up to 3 years or more.
It’s important to note that orthodontic treatment requires consistent and careful follow-up to achieve the desired results. This includes regular adjustments to braces or aligners, maintaining good oral hygiene, and wearing retainers as prescribed after the braces or aligners are removed.
Your dentist will be able to give you a more accurate estimate of how long your treatment will take after evaluating your specific case.
