Open Bite

An open bite is a type of malocclusion in which some of the teeth do not touch while the rest of the teeth are touching. This is problematic for patients, as it usually results in problems with speech, as the tongue tends to protrude through the gap. It can make chewing food difficult. And of course, it can cause esthetic concerns.

Open bites are a complex phenomenon, and can occur for many different reasons. Sometimes, the problem is that the teeth in the area of concern fail to erupt. This can generally be treated with orthodontics (braces). However, there are other types of open bites that involve the bone of the jaws. In this case, the jaw bone develops in a direction that is not parallel with the opposing jaw, resulting in a lack of contact between the opposing teeth in that area. This can happen as a result of a habit in childhood, such as a pacifier habit or a thumb-sucking habit, that lingers past the age of 5. If the object rests between the teeth for a long enough time, it can influence the growth and shape of the developing jaws.

When the problem is the bone shape and or size, usually orthodontic treatment (braces or clear aligners) alone cannot fix the problem. This is because the orthodontic appliances move the teeth only. If the bone is the problem, and just the teeth are moved, the teeth will be extruded, or pulled out from the bone, by the braces. In this situation, usually corrective jaw surgery is warranted; the bone needs to be moved to a better position so that the teeth can make contact.

Call our office to schedule your consultation if you would like to discuss treatment for your open bite.