An open bite is a misalignment of the teeth where the upper and lower teeth do not meet when the jaws are closed. It can affect daily functions like eating and speaking, and influence oral health. Addressing an open bite can improve chewing efficiency, speech clarity, and contribute to a healthier mouth.
Understanding Open Bites
An open bite occurs when a vertical gap exists between the upper and lower teeth when the jaw is closed. Open bites are categorized by the gap’s location and underlying cause.
The most common type is an anterior open bite, where the front upper teeth do not meet the lower front teeth. A posterior open bite occurs when the back teeth, such as molars or premolars, fail to make contact. Sometimes, a complete open bite affects both anterior and posterior teeth, with only the very back molars touching.
Beyond location, open bites are also classified by their origin. A dental open bite arises from issues with tooth eruption or position. A skeletal open bite stems from abnormal jaw growth patterns, where the upper and lower jaws grow apart instead of in parallel. Often, a combination of these factors contributes to the condition.
Common Causes of Open Bites
Several factors contribute to the development of an open bite, ranging from everyday habits to genetic predispositions. Prolonged oral habits during childhood are frequent contributors. These include thumb sucking, pacifier use beyond recommended ages, or persistent lip sucking. These habits can physically push teeth out of alignment over time.
Another common cause is tongue thrusting, an abnormal swallowing pattern where the tongue pushes against the front teeth during swallowing or speaking. This consistent pressure can prevent the front teeth from properly erupting or maintaining their alignment. In some instances, temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders can lead to an open bite due to chronic jaw pain causing individuals to consciously or unconsciously separate their teeth.
Skeletal factors, influenced by genetics, also play a significant role. Abnormal growth of the jawbones can result in a vertical excess of the face, leading to a skeletal open bite. Other less common causes can include facial trauma or, rarely, poorly fitting dental restorations. Identifying the specific cause is important for guiding effective treatment strategies.
Treatment Options
Correcting an open bite involves various approaches, tailored to the type, severity, and patient’s age. Non-surgical orthodontic methods are often the first line of treatment, particularly for dental open bites or less severe skeletal cases. Traditional braces can effectively move teeth into correct alignment. Clear aligners offer a discreet alternative, using a series of custom-made trays to gradually reposition teeth.
Specific orthodontic appliances can also be integrated into treatment plans. Bite turbos or bite blocks can be used to prevent certain teeth from contacting, allowing others to erupt or intrude to close the open bite. Palatal expanders may address jaw discrepancies, while elastics can apply directed forces. Habit-breaking appliances, such as tongue cribs, are often employed to discourage tongue thrusting or thumb sucking.
Myofunctional therapy, a series of exercises designed to retrain oral and facial muscles, can also be a valuable component of treatment. This therapy focuses on correcting improper tongue posture and swallowing patterns, which are often underlying causes of open bites. By strengthening and coordinating these muscles, myofunctional therapy can help stabilize orthodontic results and reduce the likelihood of relapse.
For severe skeletal open bites, where the jawbones are significantly misaligned, orthognathic surgery is typically recommended. This surgical procedure involves repositioning the upper or lower jaw to achieve proper alignment and bite. Jaw surgery is almost always combined with orthodontic treatment, with braces often worn before and after the surgical procedure to fine-tune tooth positioning. The decision on the most appropriate treatment depends on a comprehensive evaluation of the open bite’s characteristics and the individual’s needs.
Life After Open Bite Correction
Once the active phase of open bite correction is complete, a retention phase begins, which is crucial for maintaining the achieved results. Retainers, either removable or fixed, are used to prevent the teeth from shifting back to their original positions. Fixed retainers are bonded to the back of the teeth, while removable retainers are worn for specific durations, often primarily at night. This commitment to retainer wear is typically lifelong, as teeth have a natural tendency to relapse, particularly in open bite cases.
Regular follow-up appointments with the orthodontist or oral surgeon are also an important part of post-treatment care. These visits allow professionals to monitor the stability of the bite and address any potential issues early. Successful open bite correction offers numerous long-term benefits beyond aesthetics. Individuals often experience improved chewing function, allowing for a broader diet and better digestion. Speech clarity can also significantly improve, especially for those who previously had lisps or difficulty with certain sounds.
Furthermore, correcting an open bite can reduce the risk of other dental problems, such as excessive wear on the teeth that were making contact, and may alleviate or prevent temporomandibular joint (TMJ) issues. While minor adjustments or continued adherence to retention protocols might be necessary over time, the overall improvement in oral health and quality of life is substantial.