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Open Bite: Definition, Causes, and Treatment
An open bite is a condition in which the upper and lower teeth do not overlap when the mouth is closed. This can lead to problems with chewing, speaking, and aesthetics. Dr. Gowd’s Dental Clinic in Hyderabad provides treatment for this condition, which may be caused by genetics, habits, or misalignment of the jaw.
What is Open Bite?
This refers to a condition where there is a gap between the upper and lower teeth when the mouth is closed. It can involve the front teeth and even posterior teeth. This condition can occur in both children and adults. Depending on its severity, an open bite can make it difficult to bite and chew food, and may also affect speech clarity and comfort.
Causes of Open Bite
There are a number of reasons why open bites can occur, either individually or together. The most common causes are:
- Genetics: Inherited tendencies determine how teeth grow in alignment, and heredity is also a possible factor in developing an open bite.
- Thumb Sucking: Prolonged thumb sucking or pacifier use in childhood can distort tooth positioning, which can cause an open bite.
- Tongue Thrusting: The habit of thrusting the tongue against the teeth during swallowing or speaking can cause teeth to shift and result in an open bite.
- Jaw Discrepancies: Structural issues with the jaw, such as the misalignment of the upper and lower jaws, can also lead to an open bite.
- Trauma: Injuries from accidents or dental procedures can cause misalignment that leads to an open bite.
Types of Open Bite
Open bites are typically classified into two types based on their location:
- Anterior Open Bite: This type occurs when the front teeth do not touch when the mouth is closed, leaving a gap at the front of the mouth.
- Posterior Open Bite: This occurs when the back teeth fail to meet, creating a gap at the rear of the mouth.
Before and After Open Bite
Treatments for Open Bite
The treatment of an open bite primarily depends on the severity of the condition and its causes. The most frequent approaches include:
- Orthodontics: Orthodontic treatment uses braces or aligners to gradually reposition the teeth. This treatment closes the gap as it improves function.
- Speech Therapy: If habits like thrusting of the tongue are causing the open bite, speech therapy could help eliminate these habits and prevent further misalignment of the teeth.
- Surgical Intervention: Surgery is recommended in severe cases involving jaw misalignment to realign the jaw, then close the bite.
- Restorative Treatments: This is suitable for mild cases and where there are worn out teeth. Teeth may be reshaped and improved in appearance using bonding, crowns, or veneers.
Why Choose Dr. Gowd's Dental Clinic?
Fix your open bite and smile with confidence. Dr. Gowd’s Dental Clinic in Hyderabad takes care of effective treatments for correcting the bite.
Book your consultation today!
Medically Reviewed
Last Reviewed on 28/01/2025
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Frequently Asked Questions
Most common question that raised in patients
How will I know that I have an open bite?
If you have a gap between your upper and lower teeth when you’re closing your mouth or having problems chewing and speaking, you may have an open bite.
Can an open bite be treated?
Yes, an open bite can be treated with options such as orthodontics, speech therapy, and even surgery may be used for treatment, depending on the severity of the condition.
Do open bites tend to run in families?
In many cases, yes, open bites are hereditary, often the result of genetic jaw or tooth misalignments.
What happens if an open bite is untreated?
Untreated open bites can cause chewing difficulties, speech issues, and reduced self-confidence.
How long does it take to correct an open bite?
Treatment may take several months to a few years, depending on severity and treatment type.
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