Healthy Bite
A healthy bite is essential for overall oral health — not just straight teeth.
More Than Just Straight Teeth
Everyone understands what it’s like to go to the dentist’s office and wait, nervously, for the dentist to check their x-rays, examine their teeth and hopefully conclude with the words “no cavities.” However, there is much more to a healthy mouth than one that is free from decay.
It’s certainly true that a mouth that is free from decay is critical to one’s oral health as well as their overall health and well-being, and that timely attention to cavities is important. But a mouth with a misaligned bite can have just as significant an impact on your overall oral health.
How We Evaluate Your Bite
It may seem odd to consult with your dentist, or an orthodontist, about your bite when you feel you have no difficulty eating or speaking. However, bite issues can be subtle and gradual. In order to determine whether you have a healthy bite, your orthodontist will consider several views of your teeth:
The View from the Front
In a healthy bite your top front teeth should be parallel with the top of your lower lip. There are some cases when top teeth extend beyond the bottom lip, which may indicate an overbite that needs correction.
The View of the Bottom Teeth
Each of the bottom teeth should align perfectly with one another in a gentle, flowing curve, barely touching each other. Gaps, crowding, or teeth that are turned sideways may indicate alignment issues.
The View from the Side
This view is difficult for individuals to see on their own. However, what your orthodontist is looking for is that the pointed ends of the top teeth align precisely with the corresponding grooves in the bottom teeth.
The Importance of a Healthy Bite
Where your bite is determined to be less than ideal, your teeth are not working together smoothly and this can lead to problems and issues like jaw pain, headaches, uneven tooth wear, and difficulty chewing or speaking.
For more information about how to determine and establish a healthy bite, contact us now.
Schedule an Appointment Today
Call Dr. Hansen today to find out how he can help you enjoy the more comfortable and confident smile you’ve always wanted.