Many dentists see patients come into their office complaining of the symptoms of a poor bite without recognizing the cause. This vital portion of dental care is referred to as bite analysis and therapy. Unfortunately, it is also one of the areas often forgotten and underestimated by patients. The shape and pressure pattern of the teeth and jaws can affect the rest of your oral and overall health.

Its Characteristics

The precise way you bite, including how hard your teeth come together and where that pressure is, makes up this portion of your oral health. If it is uneven or extreme (ex. grinding), you have a poor pattern that requires treatment. Your jaw proportion could also be incorrect. A dentist will look for worn or chipped teeth as well as exposed dentin or a visual jaw problem as the first indication of a problem.

Its Effects

Left untreated, the most obvious effects of a poor bite is the wearing down of enamel, which exposes the tooth pulp (dentin) making it susceptible to sensitivity, cavities, and disease. The patient notices pain with these symptoms particularly when eating or drinking something that has an extreme temperature or is sugary. Coatings, implants, crowns or other dental work previously done by a dentist will wear out significantly faster because of the uneven pressure. Headaches and damaged jawbones are also possible, but more frequent in those who clench or grind their teeth.

Its Causes

Genetic factors including the characteristics of the teeth and jawbones are a large determining factor of a bad bite pattern. This could involve an uneven jaw or teeth that are higher than others are. Children who suck their thumbs, untreated injuries, and tongue impressions caused during stressful occurrences also affect the overall pattern of the teeth.

Its Solution

One of the first steps of treatment is often an impression made from a special tool that closely resembles a mouth guard used for sports. The dentist can then determine which procedures will be most effective in treating the problem. Lowering or raising the height of the teeth is only one treatment option to even the pressure across the entire surface. Orthodontics and corrective appliances can also be used to adjust your jaws or simply absorb the pressure of grinding or clenching.

Whether you see a dentist in Bolingbrook or elsewhere in the country, your dental professional will check the quality of your bite in an effort to help you achieve total oral health. This area of your dental care can greatly affect your satisfaction with other treatments and prevent you from needing additional treatments. Considering the varied problems and issues that arise with this type of issue, treatment is well worth it and may even save you a significant amount of money on your dental care.