Can Braces Fix My Bite?

Here in Clapham Common, our expert dentists achieve perfectly straight smiles in patients of all ages and backgrounds. Today, we’re focusing specifically on bite problems – what they are, how to tell if you have one, what happens if you don’t treat them and what options are available. Read on to find out all about whether braces can fix your bite.

What is your ‘bite’?

The ‘bite’ is a dentistry term for how our teeth meet or touch when we close our mouths. There are lots of types of bite, including overbite (top set overlapping bottom set), underbite (vice versa), crossbite (a mix) and open bite (where the teeth don’t fully meet). The most common is an overbite. Dentists agree that the top teeth shouldn’t overlap the bottom ones by more than about 25%. Unfortunately, in many cases, it’s much more than this.

What are bite problems?

With teeth not meeting or closing how they should, bite problems can occur. These include tooth wear; gum wear; headaches and jaw pain; chewing and biting issues; and more. Thankfully, in most cases, having orthodontic treatment can help to correct the bite and align the teeth properly.

How do I know if I have a bite problem?

Your dentist can diagnose this for you, but if you’re unsure, a quick look in the mirror can reveal more than you think. For example, you might notice that some of your teeth touch in such a way that you’re developing a chip. Or, you might be suffering from unexplained headaches. If in any doubt, speak to our experts in Clapham Common.

How do I treat my bite problem?

To fix your bite, braces are often your best bet. These work to slowly adjust your smile, aligning the teeth into better positions that reduce wear and tear on your smile and any associated symptoms (such as jaw pain or headaches). Braces can vary between invisible braces, fixed braces and lingual braces. We can discuss your options here at our Clapham Common dental practice.

What happens if I don’t correct my bite?

You could cause more issues further down the line. In extreme cases, tooth wear could result in extraction, and gum wear might require surgery to correct. One of the key takeaways from orthodontics is that repositioning your teeth can also make them easier to clean and care for. So if you don’t treat your smile, your oral health may also be in jeopardy.

To get advice on braces and bite concerns, speak to our top dentists in Clapham Common today.