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Open Bite

Open Bite

What you need to know about open bite – symptoms, diagnosis and treatment

Open bite is a common dental problem that needs orthodontic treatment. It is a malocclusion (bad bite) where the bottom and top teeth do not meet each other when the mouth is closed. This leaves a space between the teeth on the upper and lower arch.

An open bite can affect the front or the back of the mouth, but an open bite in the front is more common.

In people with a proper bite, the upper and lower teeth connect all the way through, with the upper teeth slightly overlapping the bottom teeth when they close their mouth.

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Case 16 Befor Case 16 After

What is an open bite?

An open bite occurs when the upper and bottom teeth do not meet at the back or front of the mouth when the mouth is fully closed, leaving space between them. An open bite is a common malocclusion (a group of dental issues causing teeth misalignment, which results in difficulty biting down and other related issues, such as gum and tooth decay, oral hygiene issues, and pain).

An open bite is usually a complex issue, but an experienced and licensed orthodontist can correct this condition with a brace or Invisalign. If an open bite is present, consult an orthodontist for treatment.

What causes an open bite?

An open bite has two underlying causes. – dental or skeletal, and in some cases, both causes.

  • Genetics

Skeletal issues occur in bone growth, inherited from a parent and passed down in the family.

  • Bad oral habits

Dental causes occur from bad oral habits that affect proper dental development. These habits include lower lip sucking, tongue-thrusting and thumb sucking.

  • Other causes

The other causes of open bites are

  • Lack of space for adult teeth to come in
  • Improper swallowing pattern
  • Traumas to the jaw
  • Poor tongue posture
  • Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD) or other chronic jaw or dental pain

An orthodontist can provide an effective treatment regardless of what causes an open bite.

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5 Star Reviews -  Museum Dental SuitesHighly recommend Museum Dental Suite. Their work is of the highest calibre, professional and friendly. I'm very thankful they for excellent aftercare advice and for making me relaxed and so well treated. I've recommended them to both my family and friends.

I have been undertaking a cosmetic treatment (Invisalign) for around eight months here, off the back of a recommendation of a friend who had the same treatment. The professionalism and perfectionism with which my treatment was delivered was outstanding, as was the general service and were all of the staff I encountered.

My dentist Dr. Wahab Shakir was particularly great, with a friendly, reassuring manner and an eye for detail. He always went above and beyond, without ever being asked.

I'm now almost at the end of my treatment and couldn't be more pleased with how treatment has gone. Given the service and end result I'd also consider it excellent value for money.

Keep up the good work Museum Dental Suites!

What are the signs of an open bite?

The inability to fully close the mouth is the most noticeable sign of an open bite. The back or front teeth do not touch the bottom and top.

Other signs of an open bite and other malocclusions are:

  • Less-pronounced chin
  • The inability of the upper and bottom teeth to make contact
  • Improper teeth alignment
  • Problems with swallowing and chewing
  • Difficulties biting down food with the front teeth
  • Pain when chewing or biting
  • Unattractive smile
  • Speech problems like a lisp

Diagnosing an open bite

If you are concerned about your bite, ensure you visit a licensed orthodontist to examine your bite and teeth. The orthodontist will diagnose the problem using 3D imaging, X-rays and a dental exam.

The x–rays allow the orthodontist to see what is below the gum line to determine the cause of the open bite. After a diagnosis, the orthodontist will discuss the treatment options, and you can decide on the right treatment.

Case 17 Befor Case 17 After
Case 9 Befor Case 9 After

Can an open bite damage the teeth?

Yes, it can. An open bite causes complications in the teeth, mouth and general health issues, including an unattractive smile.

An open bite worsens over time, increasing the risk of problems like excessive wear and tear on the load-bearing teeth or gum disease.

Other problems possibly caused by an open bite

  • Snoring
  • Speech impediments, such as lisp
  • Pain or problems with biting or chewing
  • Embarrassment or lack of confidence with your smile
  • Periodontal or gum disease
  • Sleep difficulties
  • Earaches and headaches
  • Digestive issues from difficulty chewing
  • Tooth decay from excessive bacteria growth
  • Temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMD)

These problems associated with an open bite make correcting this problem important. Children with an open bite need an orthodontic evaluation at age 7 when their front adult teeth have come in completely.

Adults can also get excellent results with Invisalign treatment or braces from a skilled orthodontist.

RECENT GOOGLE REVIEWS

Quote icon - Museum Dental Suites

5 Star Reviews - Museum Dental SuitesFirstly what a great dentist, all the staff were friendly and very helpful as this was my first time here.

I had called for an emergency appointment due to a sudden cracked tooth and Dr Wahab Shakir despite the end of day fast approaching (30 minutes till close) he said he would see me.

The treatment was not straight forward due to the crack but Dr Shakir after a lengthy time managed to save the tooth/restore it and prevent what I believe most dentists would have done which install a crown - Thank you!

Highly recommend this dentist and service and I am grateful for not only seeing me within an hour but also staying passed closing time and finally for doing a Stella job.

This is a top notch dentist who makes you feel at ease which for someone liked me is important. The staff are very professional, polite, courteous and friendly. Marios, my dentist is extremely patient and cares about your dental care and the service you receive. Just received my new dentures and they have been done to a very high standard and am very pleased. I have nothing but praise for the staff and the treatment/service I received.

How to correct an open bite

You will discuss your treatment options when you visit an orthodontist for an extensive dental exam and diagnosis. An orthodontist can treat an open bite with different treatments and will offer a professional recommendation based on your needs and diagnosis.

Ensure you get an expert opinion from a licensed orthodontist who can use cutting-edge and advanced technology to deliver treatment.

  • Braces

Braces are a convenient, affordable and effective method for correcting an open bite. Different braces options are available, including lingual, metal and ceramic braces. The recommended treatment depends on your diagnosis. Braces are effective, easy to maintain and give a beautiful smile.

  • Invisalign clear aligners

Invisalign is an effective treatment for correcting an open bite when provided by an experienced Invisalign provider. Invisalign has become popular for correcting orthodontic issues and can correct open bites in adults and teenagers.

Invisalign is arguably more effective for treating open bites. Ensure you opt for a licensed orthodontist, preferably a Diamond Plus or Diamond Invisalign provider with the most experience in Invisalign treatment.

  • Oral surgery

In severe cases of an open bite, oral surgery may be necessary. While oral surgery for open bite correction is rare, the orthodontist will refer you to an oral surgeon if your case needs surgery. Oral surgery and orthodontic care can help achieve optimal results for a severe open bite.

  • Retainers

Retainers are protective devices used after orthodontic treatment. After your treatment, whether with braces or Invisalign, the orthodontist will provide a set of retainers to preserve your new smile and prevent a reoccurrence of the open bite. Ensure you wear your retainers as instructed by the orthodontist.

Open bite treatments are available at Museum Dental Suites. Our experienced orthodontist will examine your bite at your consultation and recommend the right open bite treatment. Call us today on 0207 1833 0886 to book an appointment with our orthodontist.

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Case 6 Befor Case 6 After

Frequently asked questions

How common is an open bite?

An open bite is a relatively rare dental problem. It affects about 0.6% of the population. A licensed orthodontist can successfully treat open bites using Invisalign or braces. 

Does an open bite need surgery?

In severe cases, an open bite will need oral surgery. Regular orthodontic intervention, such as Invisalign or braces, can correct an open bite. The orthodontist will conduct a full examination, including 3D imaging or X-rays, to assess your bite and determine the right treatment. 

How does an open bite look?

An open bite is a malocclusion (bad bite) where the upper and bottom teeth do not meet when the mouth is closed, leaving space between the bottom and top arches of the teeth. You may have an open bite if you have a gap between your bottom and top teeth. Consult your orthodontist for an examination. 

What is the treatment for an open bite?

In most cases, orthodontic therapy provided by an expert doctor can correct an open bite. Invisalign or braces are effective solutions for correcting an open bite, provided a licensed, experienced professional handles the treatment. 

In severe cases, the orthodontist may refer you to an oral surgeon for surgery to supplement the orthodontic care.

Can an open bite occur from wearing a nightguard?

A nightguard also called a nighttime mouthguard, helps people stop locking their jaw or grinding their teeth while sleeping. In certain cases, it causes the teeth to shift over time which may cause an open bite. 

Consult your orthodontist if you wear a nighttime mouthguard for teeth grinding but have concerns about your teeth moving. 

Does an open bite worsen over time?

Yes, it does. Untreated orthodontic open bites will worsen over time. Ensure you visit an experienced orthodontist who provides open bite treatment to prevent further gums and teeth damage, discomfort or pain while biting, swallowing or chewing. 

Children with open bites who get early intervention, as early as seven years, will get long-lasting and effective results. 

Do I have to correct an open bite?

That is your choice but it is recommended, you do. Correcting an open bite is important because it worsens over time. Properly aligned teeth benefit your mouth and general body health, including cosmetic benefits. 

An untreated open bite may cause discomfort with swallowing, biting, chewing, tooth decay, periodontal disease and sleeping problems. These reasons make seeking treatment from an orthodontist for an open bite necessary. 

Can an open bite correct itself?

No, it can’t. An open bite cannot correct itself but worsens over time and need more invasive treatment. Seek care from an experienced and licensed orthodontist to treat your open bite for an effective and long-lasting result. Treatment options may include Invisalign therapy or braces. 

Can an open bite result from thumb sucking?

Yes, it can. Sucking on the thumb is a common cause of an open bite, including any habit that pushes the teeth out of alignment over time. These include poor swallowing patterns and tongue thrusting. 

Can an open bite cause lisping?

Yes, it can. An open bite can cause speech impediments like lisping. The inability of the bottom and top teeth to close may cause difficulties in articulating and speaking. Treating an open bite can help stop lisping, but further speech therapy may be necessary. 

Can you correct adult open bites?

Yes. Licensed, experienced orthodontists can correct open bites in adults. Adult open bite treatment may need complex treatment, but it can be successful if an experienced orthodontist supervises it. 

Orthodontists use Invisalign or braces to correct open bites in adults. Many orthodontists use Invisalign to correct open bites as it is more comfortable for patients. 

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RECENT GOOGLE REVIEWS

Quote

reviews-star.pngHighly recommend Museum Dental Suite. Their work is of the highest calibre, professional and friendly. I'm very thankful they for excellent aftercare advice and for making me relaxed and so well treated. I've recommended them to both my family and friends.

Quote

reviews-star.pngI have been undertaking a cosmetic treatment (Invisalign) for around eight months here, off the back of a recommendation of a friend who had the same treatment. The professionalism and perfectionism with which my treatment was delivered was outstanding, as was the general service and were all of the staff I encountered.

My dentist Dr. Wahab Shakir was particularly great, with a friendly, reassuring manner and an eye for detail. He always went above and beyond, without ever being asked.

I'm now almost at the end of my treatment and couldn't be more pleased with how treatment has gone. Given the service and end result I'd also consider it excellent value for money.

Keep up the good work Museum Dental Suites!

Quote

reviews-star.pngFirstly what a great dentist, all the staff were friendly and very helpful as this was my first time here.

I had called for an emergency appointment due to a sudden cracked tooth and Dr Wahab Shakir despite the end of day fast approaching (30 minutes till close) he said he would see me.

The treatment was not straight forward due to the crack but Dr Shakir after a lengthy time managed to save the tooth/restore it and prevent what I believe most dentists would have done which install a crown - Thank you!

Highly recommend this dentist and service and I am grateful for not only seeing me within an hour but also staying passed closing time and finally for doing a Stella job.

Quote

reviews-star.pngThis is a top notch dentist who makes you feel at ease which for someone liked me is important. The staff are very professional, polite, courteous and friendly. Marios, my dentist is extremely patient and cares about your dental care and the service you receive. Just received my new dentures and they have been done to a very high standard and am very pleased. I have nothing but praise for the staff and the treatment/service I received.

Quote

reviews-star.pngBest dentist ever hands down. Least painful and least scary experiences here (I'm usually really scared of going to the dentist, and even find the initial anaesthetic injection painful) - they really care about the patient, and making sure you're comfortable, results are also fab. Seriously can't imagine a better dentist!

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reviews-star.pngAfter lots of research I was very happy with the results and the service at Museum Dental. 100% I would recommend to a friend. I couldn't be more pleased.

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