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Table of Contents
Open bites are common dental conditions where the upper and lower teeth don't meet when the mouth closes, resulting in a visible gap.
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Dr. Paul O'Connell Explains Orthodontic Consultations At 3Dental
Dr. Paul O'Connell Explains Orthodontic Consultations At 3Dental
Common causes of open bite include:
- A misalignment of the jaw and teeth
- Childhood behaviours
- Genetic factors
- Jaw trauma
While open bites can cause ongoing aesthetic and functional problems, dental treatments can correct alignment issues and transform your smile.
What Is An Open Bite?
There are different types of open bites to be aware of, with the most common being anterior and posterior open bites.
We've explained the different types here:
| Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Anterior Open Bite | If your front teeth and upper and lower incisors don't meet, it's an anterior open bite. The premolars and molars do meet with this form of malocclusion. |
| Posterior Open Bite | If your posterior teeth (the molars and premolars) don't meet, but the front teeth and upper and lower incisors meet, it's classed as a posterior open bite. |
| Lateral Open Bite | Lateral open bites are less common than anterior or posterior issues. With a lateral open bite, your upper and lower teeth might have a gap, but it only occurs on one side of the mouth. |
What Are The Causes Of An Open Bite?
In most cases, open bites occur due to genetics or behaviours. In some situations, individuals might have a combination of genetic conditions and previous childhood behaviours that impacted adult tooth development.
Bad Oral Habits
Individuals with a frontal (or anterior) open bite often display behaviours in childhood, but the issues transfer into adulthood. For example, childhood behaviours, including the use of dummies past the age of three, have higher risks of open bite symptoms. The same goes for thumb-sucking and tongue-thrusting.
Genetics
Some jaw growth patterns and facial structures might be passed on from parents, increasing the risks of an open bite. If your jaws don't develop in the correct position, it can cause misalignment issues, leading to a skeletal open bite.
Dental Development
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Kenneth Duggan Testimonial
- Spark AlignersKenneth Duggan Testimonial
- Spark AlignersIf your baby teeth fall out early, it could impact the eruption of your permanent teeth, resulting in misalignment. Impacted teeth (teeth stuck beneath the gum) can disrupt your other teeth, leading to incorrect positioning.
Other Potential Causes:
- Jaw trauma
- Incorrect tongue posture
What Are the Symptoms Of An Open Bite?
The symptoms of an open bite can vary for each person, but they commonly include:
- An uneven smile
- Issues when chewing and swallowing
- Teeth misalignment
- Challenges when biting on food with the front teeth
- Speech difficulties
- Low confidence
How Is Open Bite Diagnosed?
If you suspect you have an open bite, it's best to seek treatment from an orthodontist. They will examine your teeth and symptoms, perform a full dental exam, and take X-rays to determine the type and extent of your open bite.
Once you have a diagnosis, your orthodontist will explore different treatment options.
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Open Bite Dental treatments
In most open bite cases, orthodontic treatment is the best solution, as it can gradually encourage the teeth to move into their correct position. The right treatment for your needs depends on the extent of your open bite.
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Before and After (Click to enlarge)
- 6 Month BracesBraces
Braces are a popular treatment for adults and children, as they correct bite issues over time.
Adults can choose between fixed braces or aligners.
However, it depends on what your dentist recommends as the best treatment.
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Before and After (Click to enlarge)
- InvisalignInvisalign
Invisalign treatment can correct bite issues and encourage proper anterior or posterior teeth alignment.
It's popular because the aligners are invisible, making them one of the best options for teenagers and adults.
Jaw surgery
Severe open bite problems might require surgical correction. Orthognathic surgery can correct misaligned teeth and jaws. If your orthodontist feels this is the best solution, they'll refer you to a specialist surgeon.
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Retainers
After your initial orthodontic treatment, you'll wear retainers to keep your lower and upper teeth in their correct positions. Following your dentist's instructions and wearing the retainers regularly will prevent the need for further treatment.
What Is The Cost Of Open Bite Treatment?
Dr. Paul O'Connell Explains Orthodontic Consultations At 3Dental
Dr. Paul O'Connell Explains Orthodontic Consultations At 3Dental
The costs of open bite malocclusion will depend on the severity and your chosen treatment option.
Information on our pricing options can be found on our orthodontic pricing page. Your orthodontist will assess your open bite and recommend which solutions will provide the best outcomes.
At 3Dental, we offer free consultations so you can get all of your questions answered before making any commitments to treatment. We also offer flexible payment plans and locations in Dublin (Red Cow), Dublin 2 (Aungier Street), Limerick and Galway.
Please book an appointment with us today or contact our friendly team with any questions.
Book Your Free Consultation With Our Orthodontic Team
Based in Dublin, Limerick and Galway - we offer free, no-obligation consultations :)
Book Your Free Consultation
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