It is something you do countless times a day, yet you probably never think much about it. However, the way you bite, or bring your upper and lower teeth together, is an important part of your dental health and overall health. If your dentist has told you that you have a bad bite, you may be asking the following questions:

What Is A Bad Bite?

A bad bite (or malocclusion) refers to teeth that clench down in improper position. There are various types and degrees of a bad bite and your dentist can more accurately diagnose your case.

Why Does It Matter?

The human chewing system is made up of muscles, teeth and a jaw joint that intricately work together. They must all function in proper position to maintain optimal health. A bad bite affects the health of your smile and your body. Here are some symptoms of a poor bite:

• Teeth grinding (bruxism)
• Broken teeth
• Gum Problems
• Lost fillings
• Headaches
• TMJ/ jaw soreness
• Sleep apnea

How Can I Correct It?

The treatment for a bad bite can vary greatly depending on the type and severity of your malocclusion. You may be treated with TMJ therapy, a dental splint or orthodontics. In more complex cases, oral surgery may be needed to address a bad bite.

As you can see, a bad bite is nothing to take lightly. It can cause a multitude of disruptive symptoms that can be eliminated by correcting the way your teeth naturally come together while resting and chewing. If you experience symptoms of a bad bite, talk to you dentist to get a professional diagnosis and to learn what treatment options are available to you.

Posted on behalf of Dr. Sarah Thompson, Soft Touch Dentistry
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