Deep bite is a prevalent dental disease. It occurs when the overlapping of the upper teeth on the lower teeth is more than it should be. This can be seen in both adults and children. A timely treatment of this condition would depend on the deep bite and understanding its causes, effects, and solutions. So, let's dive.
What is a deep bite?
Deep bite, along with being one of the forms of aberrant occlusion or bad bite, comes under the purview of excessive overclosure of the upper anterior teeth over the lower anterior teeth. Normally, upper overhangs cover lower teeth. With a deep bite, such an overlap is excessive. Untreated, deep bites can thus result in some detrimental effects on a person's dental and oral health.
Causes of deep bite
Genetics
Genetics plays a big role in deep bite development. If parents have a deep bite, children may inherit it. Jaw structure and tooth alignment are often hereditary.
Childhood habits
Thumb sucking and prolonged pacifier use can cause deep bites. Both habits contribute to teeth being pushed out of alignment and jaw growth during development.
Missing teeth
Deep bites can develop over time if teeth are missing. Additionally, adjacent teeth may crowd into the gaps left by tooth loss, causing other bite issues. This results in uneven misalignment of the teeth.
Jaw misalignment
A deep bite typically occurs due to imperfections in jaw growth, often caused by a smaller lower jaw or a larger upper jaw. This leads to excessive overlapping of the teeth.
Symptoms of deep bite
Visible overlap
The most obvious symptom is the upper teeth overly cover the lower ones. Therefore, lower teeth may not remain visible when biting down.
Jaw pain
The deep bite causes jaw pain or discomfort. This happens because of improper pressure on the jaw joint.
Tooth wear
Due to excessive overlap, teeth suffer from uneven wear, with lower teeth wearing down fairly quickly than those in the upper position.
Speech issues
Some people who have deep bites find it difficult to speak. They may struggle with the pronunciation of certain words.
Difficulty chewing
It makes chewing food difficult because of the deep bite. An imbalance in one's bite leads to failure to break down one's food properly.
Effects of deep bite on health
Dental problems
Deep bite tends to increase both cavities and gum disease. Misaligned teeth are harder to clean effectively.
Jaw disorders
Deep bite, if left untreated, leads to TMJ disorder. This will cause pain and limited jaw movement.
Facial appearance
The deep bite will change the facial structure. It may, over time, make the chin look smaller or recede.
Self-esteem issues
Individuals suffering from the deep bite may feel conscious about their smile, affecting their confidence in social interactions.
Diagnosing deep bite
Dental examination
A dentist would be able to identify deep bites on a normal check-up. A dentist will examine both tooth alignment and bite pattern.
X-rays
X-rays will be used to assess jaw structure and tooth positioning. They have a clear picture of how serious a deep bite is.
Bite analysis
Bite analysis helps understand how the teeth come into occlusion. It will help build a precise treatment plan.
How to fix deep bite?
Braces
Braces are the most commonly known treatment for this condition. They gradually move teeth into appropriate alignment.
Clear aligners
The clear alternative to traditional braces is called clear aligners. It uses aligners to correct deep bites without metal wires.
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Orthodontic appliances
Bite plates or headgear may also be used for this purpose. They contribute to alignment for both jaws and teeth in a good position.
Surgery
In the most extreme cases, orthognathic surgery may be necessary. This would correct the shape of the jaw when they have a deep bite.
Tooth extraction
In some cases, a tooth may need to be removed to create space for the proper alignment of the remaining teeth.
Preventing deep bite
Early intervention
Early intervention when dealing with deep bite cases in children will save the child from those complications later in life. Regular dental check-ups can help in early detection.
Breaking bad habits
Discourage thumb sucking or dropping an infant's pacifier; this further prevents the forming of deep bites in children.
Proper oral care
Proper oral hygiene prevents losing teeth; unhealthy teeth lead to increased chances of bite issues.
Living with deep bite
Adjustment processes with treatment
It is a long-term patience-building experience; it would entail using aligners or braces. Follow instructions from the dentist for optimal results.
Maintain oral hygiene
Cleaning the teeth and braces thoroughly to avoid cavities. It is advisable to brush and floss regularly.
Caspersmile clear aligners: The ultimate solution for a deep bite
There are new, advanced devices that correct deep bites using caspersmile "clear" aligners with gradual detachment from teeth.
Best features of caspersmile clear aligners
Invisible
Clear aligners are virtually invisible, making them great for teens and adults.
Fitting comfort
Made of smooth and BPA-free plastic, they are thus gentle on gums and teeth.
Depends on need
Remove to eat, brush, or for special occasions.
Individualized treatment
Each set of aligners is uniquely built for a perfect match to your teeth.
Ideal for deep bite
Fixes the excessive overlap of upper and lower teeth.
Recap
Caspersmile clear aligners are modern and effective in fixing deep bites. It's easy to achieve your healthiest, confident smile from the comfort of your home. Goodbye, deep bite; hello, brighter future with caspersmile!
FAQs
Can deep bite be rectified without braces?
Yes, mild cases may need clear aligners or similar appliances. However, severe cases will generally require braces or surgery.
Is deep bite treatment painful?
Treatment might result in mild discomfort initially; however, the pain is manageable with proper care.
How long does the treatment take?
Treatment time varies. From as little as 6 to 8 months with clear aligners, depending on the severity.
Can adults benefit from deep bite treatment?
Deep bites can be treated well in adults. Age is not a consideration in orthodontic treatment.
Reference
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https://aaoinfo.org/whats-trending/can-pacifiers-and-thumb-sucking-affect-my-childs-teeth/. Last updated
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