When it comes to improper bite, having teeth that are not so aesthetically pleasing may be the least of your problems. For one thing, an improper bite can cause difficulty in chewing, which could mean that you’re not receiving all the nutrients your body needs from the food you eat. This means that seeking the help of a Greenville, SC family dental practitioner to address improper bite conditions is important for your overall health. Dental treatments for improper bite can help stabilize a person’s bite as well as improve their overall health.
It must be noted that many people live their entire lives with improper bite and never seek treatment for it. Likewise, many people who have undergone the necessary dental treatment for their improper bite feel more comfortable and confident by having properly aligned teeth. Whether or not to seek professional dental care depends largely on your personal decision. That said, here are some examples of common bite problems that can be solved by a family dental practitioner in your area.
Class 1
A class 1 bite problem is a condition that occurs when the upper front teeth overlap slightly over the lower teeth. This type of improper bite is very common, and can be easily fixed with express orthodontic aligners like Simpli 5.
Class 2
A class 2 condition occurs when the upper front teeth overlap too far over the lower teeth. In severe cases, the edges of the upper teeth are touching the lower gums, while the lower teeth are already touching the roof of the mouth. Complex overbite conditions of this type can often be solved using Invisalign clear aligners.
Class 3
A class 3 condition represents a severe underbite, which means that the lower teeth are protruding significantly more than the upper teeth. Underbite can generally be addressed using Invisalign aligners, but in cases when the jaw is affecting the underbite, surgery may be necessary.
The good thing about Simpli 5 and Invisalign is they have shortened the time it takes to solve an improper bite problem considerably—what once took years can now take just months, and even weeks! If you’re interested in seeing what these dental solutions can do, consult a Greenville family dentistry doctor. If necessary, your dentist will refer you to an oral and maxillofacial surgeon (OMS) to have your jaw reshaped or shortened.
(Source: What is Malocclusion of the Teeth?, Healthline)