How Having “Deep Bite” Can Signal Deep Trouble for Your Dental Health

Are you a victim of “deep bite”? You probably never heard of the term that Dracula somehow comes to mind, but it’s nothing like that. Deep bite is a malocclusion of your teeth,  — in which your upper teeth overlap with your bottom teeth when the back teeth are closed. It’s just another name for “overbite” and “closed bite.” While having deep bite gives you a unique look, the condition usually indicates additional problems that need to be attended to. 

At the office of Northfield Orthodontics our experienced orthodontists are thoroughly trained in correcting problems of “deep bite.” We will work to correct the problem, which involves moving either the upper teeth, lower front teeth — or both — farther up into the supporting bone. Additionally, the side and back teeth should be elongated, thus opening the bite. 

What causes “deep bite”?

The most common reason for a “deep bite” is a small lower jaw, which causes those upper teeth to be pushed forward. And, as the lower front teeth grow up under the top ones, they often create crowding and alignment issues. A missing lower tooth can also cause a deep bite. 

Over-erupted lower front teeth wear down more quickly. Patients who clench or grind their lower teeth run the risk of a loss of tooth structure, and when a patient is biting into the roof of their mouth, sores may develop that can make normal eating uncomfortable. 

If a substantial amount of tooth structure has been lost, we will need to recreate the space needed for restoration by moving the upper and lower teeth apart (opening the bite). Unraveling the crowding and crookedness that usually accompanies deep bites requires that the deep bite be corrected to allow room for the crowded teeth to spread out.

At the office of Northfield Orthodontics, our trained orthodontic specialists are experts in malocclusions of all types and will examine your particular case to ensure the very best treatment for you. Typically, braces or clear aligners are an effective solution to bite problems.  Find out more or schedule an appointment by contacting us today.   

By Northfield Orthodontics

March 25, 2021