Suspect a Bite Problem?

malocclusion examination Roy

Hello! I’m Reggie Whitaker, DMD, of Roy Dental Care in Roy. Thanks for visiting my dental blog. The topic of today’s post is malocclusion–literally–”bad bite.”

Malocclusion Affects Many People

Edward Angle, a pioneer in modern orthodontics invented the term malocclusion. Malocclusion is fairly common in the population as a whole but, fortunately, in most cases the misalignment is so slight that it causes no issues.

When you combine multiple teeth on two arches and a jaw joint with a considerable range of motion, it is easy to see how these elements can fail to align properly. In fact, it is a wonder that they work correctly for most people–allowing them to talk, eat, and breathe without giving it a second thought.

Malocclusion Has Multiple Causes

There are many causes of malocclusion–some originating with the teeth and some originating with the jaw. Misshapen teeth, extracted teeth, impacted teeth, crowded teeth, and widely spaced teeth can impact the bite. Injury to the jaw can also cause malocclusion as well as improperly fitting restorations and other dental appliances.

Childhood Behaviors Can Cause Bite Problems

Children with a normal bite can develop bite dilemmas with prolonged pacifier use, thumb sucking or bottle drinking. In rarer cases, oral tumors can move a bite out of alignment.

Dentists Can Treat Malocclusion

The treatment for malocclusion depends on the cause. Orthodontics can move teeth into alignment to correct bite issues. Overcrowding often requires extraction of one or more teeth. Misshapen teeth that affect the bite can often be corrected with crowns or dental bonding.

If the jawbone is significantly misshapen or misaligned, maxillofacial surgery may be necessary. Jaw surgery is a serious undertaking with significant risks and a long, painful recovery. While the jaw heals, it is secured with wires and screws. Ouch!

Don’t Ignore Bite Problems

If your jaw hurts or you notice unusual wear to your teeth, it is vital that you are examined by a professional. Call

801-776-2806

to schedule an appointment with doctor Reggie Whitaker.

Our relationship-focused dental team has been serving patients at our comfortable Roy office since 2013. We can give you more details about malocclusion, invisalign cosmetic dentistry, or general.

We also advise Roy parents about critical issues such as tooth development, thumb-sucking, water fluoridation, dental sealants, oral sports protection, and orthodontia. If you suspect that you or your child has any degree of malocclusion, schedule an exam ASAP. Untreated bite dilemmas can inhibit proper nutrition, breathing, tooth development, and speech development.

 

Contact Roy Dental Care:

801-776-2806

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

4902 S 1900 W Ste 4
Roy, Utah
84067

 

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