Do You Need Your Bite Adjusted?
When patients visit us for a consultation, many are surprised to learn that we do more than just straighten teeth for aesthetic purposes. Many children and adults also need their bite corrected to prevent problems with their oral health now and in the future. A misaligned bite is also referred to as malocclusion. This occurs when the upper and lower jaws and teeth do not line up properly.
What Causes an Incorrect Bite
Some individuals are prone to having an incorrect bite based on their family history and genetics. Others may develop a problem due to long-term pacifier use or thumb sucking. If bite problems are not corrected, it can lead to serious problems, such as uneven wear of the teeth. Bite problems can also cause the teeth to become overcrowded, making it difficult to brush and clean your teeth properly. This leads to problems with decay and gum disease. It is not uncommon for patients with overcrowding to have recurring problems with decay.
When to Visit Our Office
If you are an adult and you are concerned about the state of your bite, we encourage you to contact us to schedule a consultation as soon as possible. If you experience issues such as frequent headaches, certain teeth feeling higher than others when you are chewing, discomfort in your jaw, sensitive teeth, or teeth that seem worn, you may have a problem with your bite.
We encourage parents to bring children aged seven or older to have their bite evaluated. We can determine if your child could benefit from a two-phase treatment. A two-phase treatment breaks orthodontic treatment into two parts. The first phase of treatment improves the bite and placement of the jaw. If needed, the second phase of treatment focuses on straightening the teeth.
If you are located in Southfield, MI or the surrounding area and are concerned that you or your loved ones have a bite problem, we would love to meet with you. We can perform an evaluation and determine the best treatment plan for your needs. We look forward to seeing you soon!
