Open Bite Treatment

Taking a big bite of your favorite juicy burger can be so satisfying. Our front teeth help in taking a bite. But at times when your top teeth do not touch your bottom teeth, biting on foods like apples, sandwiches, pizzas and cut meats gets difficult. You might start eating from the back teeth alone, which can be really uncomfortable. Enjoying food is fun and should never be missed out on. Your appearance and speech can also get altered.

If you find yourself in this tricky situation you might be having what's called an “open bite.”

What exactly is an Open Bite?

Open bite is a type of malocclusion in which the top and bottom teeth do not touch each other even when the mouth is fully closed. So there's a visible opening or a gap between them.

It can either occur in the front or the back teeth. However, a frontal open bite is far more common. Malocclusion of any kind can lead to severe oral health problems. It can also prevent your teeth from performing the required functions. Open bite is no different, which is why it should be dealt with proper orthodontic care.

What are the types of Open Bite?

Anterior Open Bite:

When the front teeth in the lower and upper jaws are unable to overlap on a completed bite, it is called an anterior open bite. Anterior open bite affects all the front teeth but can also remain confined to just a few of the teeth.

Almost all cases of anterior open bite require corrective treatments that help in restoring the biting and tearing functionalities of the teeth. However, in some cases, the speech also gets affected. In such cases, the treatment can also help in improving speech quality. However, the restoration of speech is not definite since it starts developing from early childhood.

Posterior Open Bite:

Posterior, as the name suggests, is the opposite of anterior open bite. In this type of malocclusion, one would have teeth that are not touching the back. The most affected teeth in the posterior open bite are premolars and molars. Moreover, corrective treatment is very crucial for people with posterior open bites as it would help them chew correctly.

Skeletal Open Bite:

Skeletal open bite is commonly associated with abnormal growth of the face and is primarily due to a few genetic factors.

Dental Open Bite:

This type of open bite occurs when you face a problem with the impediment of tooth eruption.

What are the causes of Open Bite?

Excessive use of a pacifier, and thumb sucking:

Using too many pacifiers, thumb sucking, and tongue thrusting is the most common behaviors that lead to open bites. If stopped before the development of permanent teeth, the bite can be self-corrected. However, doing any of the things mentioned above for an extended period can lead to adverse effects.

Tongue thrusting:

People who suffer from it are likely to use their tongue to push their teeth apart to reposition the jaw, leading to an open bite.

Injuries:

Injuries resulting in jaw misalignment can also lead to an open bite.

Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD):

Having temporomandibular joint disorders causes chronic jaw pain.

Hereditary:

An open bite can also occur due to genetic factors. This means that it could get passed from one generation to another.

What are the Treatments Available for Open Bite?

The treatment will vary according to mild, moderate, or severe open bite and generally includes the following-

Braces:

Braces are one of the oldest methods used to treat various kinds of malocclusion, including open bites.

They gently push the teeth into the correct position over time are highly reliable and effective.

Clear Aligners:

Also known as invisible braces, clear aligners are the most convenient, hassle-free, and comfortable way to treat open bites. They are also removable, easy to use and deliver quick results.

Patients get a series of aligners that are supposed to be worn over a specific period of time. The aligners are custom-made on the basis of the severity of malocclusion one has. Certain open bites may require elastics with clear aligners for exceptionally effective results.

Your dentist may fix tiny tooth-colored button-like attachments on your teeth. They help the aligners to bring rapid tooth movement. They are unnoticeable, which makes aligners the go-to option for adults and working professionals.

Oral Surgery:

Oral surgery is essential only for severe cases of open bites. This method is only required when the case is highly complicated, rare, and cannot be treated by orthodontic intervention alone.

Open Bite FAQs

Can clear aligners treat open bites?

Yes. Clear Aligners are very much capable of treating all types of open bites. Illusion Aligners are specially designed to treat such malocclusions.

My top and bottom teeth don't touch when I close my mouth; which treatment should I choose to deal with it?

There are many treatments available for open bites, including clear aligners, braces, etc. However, it would be best to consult a dental professional before taking any decision.

Can an open bite cause a lisp?

Yes, an open bite can lead to speech issues such as lisping. Treatment of an open bite can help improve your speech, although it is not guaranteed as the speech starts developing from early childhood.

Can open bite get corrected in adults?

Yes, absolutely. It can be a little complex, but successful treatment is assured if supervised by an experienced orthodontist.

What is the best treatment for an open bite?

Many orthodontists are of the opinion that Illusion Aligners are far more effective for treating open bites than other alternatives. They are also more comfortable for the patient to wear for an extended period of time.

If you're looking for a pain-free yet comfortable way to treat open bites, Illusion Aligners is just what you need. Our aligners are US FDA- approved, stain-resistant, and easy to use. Click on find a doctor and begin your #SetItRight journey today!