How Does Orthodontics Fix Openbites?

People are fairly aware of tooth misalignment issues, but bite misalignment can be overlooked and just as much of a problem! Today, Ollins Orthodontics will let you know: How does orthodontics fix open bites?

What’s an Open Bite?

You may be more familiar with overbites or underbites, but there are two main types of open bites that Dr. Gabriel and Dr. Bruce address:

1. Anterior Open Bite: This can be seen when the front teeth (aka incisors) don’t touch the back teeth, leaving a gap between the upper and lower front teeth. People mostly notice this when their mouths are closed or when they are grinning.
2. Posterior Open Bite: Alternatively, this occurs when your back teeth (aka molars) don’t come in contact with the front teeth when they are together, which causes a gap between the lower and upper back teeth.

How Do Open Bites Happen?

Many people’s open bites occur during early childhood, either courtesy of genetic factors beyond your control or as a result of habits that can seem harmless.  

1. Pacifier Use: Use of pacifiers beyond the toddler age is a fairly common reason for this kind of misalignment. This is part of the reason orthodontists and dentists recommend stopping pacifier use in kids around 2-4 years of age. It can be helpful to start to wean around 18 months.
2. Thumb-Sucking: In a similar manner, too much thumb-sucking can force the front teeth too far forward.
3. Inherited Jaw Structure: Some patients are simply born with jaw structures that naturally result in open bites
4. Tooth Eruption Problems: Teeth may also erupt in such a way that gaps and misalignment happen during childhood.
5. Tongue Thrusting: People might have a habit called tongue thrusting when the tongue presses against the front teeth. This pressure can gradually push the teeth outward over time.
6. Trauma or Injury: Even if they didn’t have one prior, some manners of injury can result in healing that causes an open bite. 
7. Family History: Open bites can be passed down. If a parent or close relative has had an open bite, there is a higher likelihood of it recurring in descendents.
8. Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Disorders: TMJ disorders have a significant impact on the overall alignment and function of your jaw, which can either initially create or worsen an open bite. 
9. Neuromuscular Disorders: Some neuromuscular conditions relate to muscle control in the face and jaw of patients. Abnormal movements or positioning of the jaw and tongue can lead to open bites.

How Our Team Can Help You

As debilitating as this condition can feel, there is some good news. Ollins Orthodontics offers multiple treatment options that can combat open bites.

1. Traditional Braces: Metal or clear braces apply steady pressure in order to close the gap produced by an open bite.
2. Clear Aligners: Invisalign is a popular treatment plan consisting of custom-made plastic trays that progressively shift your teeth, switching to a new set every 1-2 weeks.
3. Elastics (Rubber Bands): Elastic bands can be used to apply additional pressure when needed. They can be effective for closing the vertical gap in an open bite.
4. Behavioral Therapy: For open bites caused by habitual behaviors like tongue thrusting, we can collaborate with specialists like speech therapists who offer behavioral therapy. This can be particularly important for children since they are in a developmental stage when good habits can be effectively instilled.
5. Retainers: After your active treatment is over, the retention stage begins. Your retainer is important to maintain your results, keeping the teeth in their new position. One unique tool we offer is fixed retainers, which can be great for patients with compliance problems,
6. Customized Treatment Plan: Every patient’s anatomy is different, and our team at Ollins Orthodontics bears this in mind as we create a custom treatment plan based on our knowledge of your individual needs. The plan involves a number of the methods we mentioned before. We combine them to ensure a successful outcome for you or your child.
7. Orthognathic Surgery: In some severe cases of misalignment, especially in adult patients, surgery may be a necessary measure to resolve jaw alignment. This is usually combined with some manner of orthodontic treatment for optimal results. While we don’t perform this surgery, we will work closely with the surgeon.

Trusting the Process

Ollins Orthodontics understands that bite issues can be taxing our patients. They cause functional problems and can be difficult to deal with as a physical feature. Our two expert doctors are proud to offer solutions for open bites and so much more. Our Nutley office is here for you!