Deep bite: braces or mouth guards?
With a deep bite, the upper dentition significantly overlaps the lower one. Sometimes pathology affects the shape of the face, it may look rounder. Hearing problems, headaches, disorders of the temporomandibular joint can also be the consequences of an orthodontic disorder. In the article we will talk about the degree and correction of deep bite.
When is malocclusion considered normal?
Bite is the ratio of the upper and lower jaws when they close. It is considered normal when the upper dentition overlaps about 1/3 of the lower one.
To find out if you have occlusion abnormalities, come for a consultation with the orthodontists of Olympus Clinics. They will inspect the dentition, perform radiography, and create an impression of the teeth.
Degrees of deep bite
Orthodontists use the following classification:
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Grade I: The upper dentition overlaps the lower one by 1/2.
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Grade II: The upper teeth overlap the lower ones by 50% or more.
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Grade III: The lower teeth are completely hidden under the upper ones.
Causes of pathology
It's usually about genetics. When the anomaly develops, the upper dentition looks extended, and the lower one continues to grow until it touches the palate. Wounds may appear on the palate, which lead to discomfort.
Habits in infancy, such as sucking a finger, prolonged use of a pacifier, bottle feeding, can contribute to the improper development of the jaws.
If left untreated, headaches, hearing problems, digestive problems, and disorders of the temporomandibular joint may occur. Other causes of orthodontic problems:
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Tooth loss
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Crowding of the dentition
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Unsuccessful dental work
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Injuries, jaw injuries
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Breathing through the mouth, not through the nose
How to treat a deep bite?
The treatment consists in the alignment of the jaws, the location of the teeth. After the examination, evaluation of the X-ray and the impression of your teeth, you and the dentists of Olympus Clinics will discuss correction options that will suit your goals, aesthetic preferences, and budget. We offer several ways to fix the orthodontic problem:
Aligners
Transparent removable mouth guards are an aesthetic correction method for changing the position of teeth. Even before the start of treatment, the future result can be predicted. During the treatment with the help of aligners, the jaws gradually move to the correct position. They are effective in correcting mild and moderate forms of deep bite.
Braces
The traditional method of correction. At Olympus Clinics, we offer American-made metal and ceramic braces. Braces exert constant pressure on the teeth, moving them to the correct position. They are suitable for correcting all degrees of deep bite. You will need to visit an orthodontist regularly for system adjustments and progress tracking.
Correcting a deep bite improves the functionality of the patient's teeth, it will be easier for him to speak clearly, chew. It also allows you to create a beautiful and healthy smile, eliminate facial asymmetry, which increases self-confidence. Treatment minimizes the risk of potential dental problems.
Can there be a relapse?
Orthodontic relapse occurs when the teeth begin to shift to their original position after treatment is completed. After correcting the bite, our orthodontists prescribe patients to wear retainers to prevent recurrence. You will also need to come to repeat appointments after treatment to monitor the condition of the jaws and avoid their displacement. If a relapse occurs, our dentists notice it at an early stage and correct it.
