ClearPath™ aligners skillfully correct deep bites, repositioning the teeth and improving bite alignment for a healthier and aesthetically pleasing smile.
A deep bite, also known as an overbite, is a type of malocclusion where the upper front teeth excessively overlap the lower front teeth when the mouth is closed. It is normal for the upper teeth to overlap the lower teeth slightly, but in a deep bite, the overlap is too much, sometimes causing the lower teeth to bite into the roof of the mouth. This condition can be hereditary, meaning it is passed down from parents to children, or it can develop over time due to habits like thumb-sucking, tongue thrusting, or excessive use of a pacifier during childhood.
The impact of a deep bite on dental health can be considerable. Firstly, it can cause wear and tear on the lower front teeth, as they are constantly rubbing against the upper front teeth. This can lead to enamel erosion, tooth sensitivity, and even fractures in severe cases. Additionally, a deep bite can put excessive pressure on the jaw joints, leading to temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, which can cause pain and discomfort in the jaw, headaches, and difficulty opening and closing the mouth. Moreover, a deep bite can also lead to gum recession and gum damage as the lower front teeth can come in contact with the gum line of the upper front teeth.
– Comprehensive dental examination: A thorough examination of the teeth, gums, and jaw structure to assess the severity of the deep bite.
– X-rays and 3D imaging: These will help determine the position of the teeth and jaw structure.
– Evaluation of oral habits: Assess any habits like thumb sucking or tongue thrusting that might be contributing to the deep bite.
– Dental history: A detailed dental history to understand any past treatments or injuries that might have contributed to the deep bite.
– Treatment planning: Develop a customized treatment plan based on the assessment and diagnosis.
– Orthodontic treatment: Use of braces or clear aligners like Clear Path to move the teeth into a more ideal position.
– Dental appliances: Use of appliances like bite planes or functional appliances to help correct the deep bite.
– Selective tooth wear: Careful grinding of some tooth surfaces to facilitate the correction of the bite.
– Habit correction: Address and correct any oral habits that might be contributing to the deep bite.
– Regular monitoring: Regular check-ups with the dentist or orthodontist to monitor the progress of the treatment.
– Retention: Use of retainers to maintain the new position of the teeth and prevent relapse.
– Regular dental check-ups: Routine dental visits to monitor the stability of the bite and overall oral health.
– Addressing any residual issues: If there are any residual issues like temporomandibular joint (TMJ) problems, they should be addressed with appropriate therapy.
– Maintaining good oral hygiene: Regular brushing and flossing to maintain good oral health.
– Avoiding harmful habits: Avoiding habits like nail-biting or tongue thrusting that might affect the bite.