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Dental bite types and issues

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.

Fixing Receding Gums

What are receding gums ?

Receding gums, also known as gingival recession, is a condition where the gums pull away from the teeth, exposing more of the tooth roots. This can lead to sensitivity, pain, and, in severe cases, tooth loss.

What causes Receding gums?

Gingival recession can be caused by several factors, including:

Periodontal disease: This is a bacterial infection that affects the gum tissue and bone that supports the teeth. As the infection progresses, it can cause the gums to recede.
Aggressive brushing: Brushing too hard or using a toothbrush with hard bristles can cause the gum tissue to wear away.
Genetics: Some people may be more prone to gingival recession due to their genetic makeup.
Poor oral hygiene: Not brushing and flossing regularly can lead to a buildup of plaque, which can cause the gums to recede.
Hormonal changes: Hormonal changes, such as those that occur during puberty, pregnancy, or menopause, can make the gums more sensitive and prone to recession.
Tobacco use: Smoking or using other tobacco products can cause the gum tissue to shrink away from the teeth

Solutions for Receding Gums

The treatment for receding gums will depend on the severity of the condition and the underlying cause. Here are some steps that you can take to fix receding gums:

Practice good oral hygiene: Brush your teeth twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and floss daily. This will help to remove plaque and prevent further gum recession.
Use a desensitizing toothpaste: This type of toothpaste can help to block the sensation of pain in the exposed tooth roots.
Address any underlying dental problems: Gum disease or tooth decay can contribute to receding gums. Work with your dentist to address these issues.
Change your brushing technique: Brushing too hard or using a hard-bristled toothbrush can cause the gum tissue to wear away. Brush gently in circular motions with a soft-bristled brush.
Get a gum graft: In more severe cases of receding gums, a gum graft may be recommended. This involves taking tissue from another area of your mouth and attaching it to the area where the gums have receded.
Consider pinhole surgical technique: This is a minimally invasive procedure where a small hole is made in the gum tissue and then the tissue is moved to cover the exposed tooth roots.

How can your dentist help?

If you have receding gums, it’s important to talk to your dentist. Treatment options may include scaling and root planing, gum graft surgery, or other procedures to restore the gum tissue and prevent further recession. In some cases, lifestyle changes such as improved oral hygiene or quitting tobacco use may be recommended.

It’s important to talk to your dentist about any gum recession you are experiencing, as they can help you determine the underlying cause and recommend the appropriate treatment. Additionally, practicing good oral hygiene and making lifestyle changes can help prevent gum recession from occurring in the first place.

Sensitive Teeth and what to do about it ?

Sensitive teeth refers to a condition where the teeth experience discomfort or pain in response to certain stimuli, such as cold or hot temperatures, sweet or sour foods, or pressure from biting or chewing. This sensitivity is typically caused by the exposure of the tooth’s underlying dentin layer, which contains tiny tubules that lead to the nerves in the tooth. When the dentin is exposed, stimuli can trigger pain or discomfort in the tooth.

What causes sensitive teeth?

Sensitive teeth can be caused by a variety of factors, including tooth decay, gum disease, teeth grinding or clenching, a cracked or chipped tooth, acidic foods or drinks, and overzealous brushing or brushing with a hard-bristled toothbrush. Treatment for sensitive teeth may include using desensitizing toothpaste, applying fluoride varnish, using a mouthguard to protect teeth from grinding, or addressing underlying dental problems with restorative treatments such as fillings, crowns, or root canal therapy.

How to fix sensitive teeth?

The treatment for sensitive teeth will depend on the underlying cause of the sensitivity. Here are some steps that you can take to fix sensitive teeth:

Use desensitizing toothpaste: This type of toothpaste contains compounds that help to block the sensation of pain in the tooth. Use it as directed by your dentist or on the product packaging.
Change your brushing habits: Brushing too hard or using a hard-bristled toothbrush can contribute to tooth sensitivity. Switch to a soft-bristled brush and brush gently in circular motions.
Avoid acidic foods and drinks: Foods and drinks that are high in acid, such as citrus fruits and sodas, can erode tooth enamel and contribute to sensitivity. Limit your consumption of these items.
Address dental problems: Tooth decay, gum disease, and tooth grinding can all contribute to tooth sensitivity. If you have any of these conditions, work with your dentist to address them.
Consider fluoride treatment: Your dentist may recommend a fluoride treatment to help strengthen tooth enamel and reduce sensitivity.
Use a mouthguard: If you grind your teeth at night, a mouthguard can help to protect your teeth and reduce sensitivity.

How can your Dentist help?

It’s important to talk to your dentist about any tooth sensitivity you are experiencing, as they can help you determine the underlying cause and recommend the appropriate treatment. Schedule a free consultation with Dr. Xavier at Texan Smile today to learn more.