Dr. Steve Wood is an experienced orthodontist at Wood Orthodontics who understands the importance of proper diagnosis and treatment of malocclusions. He has developed an assessment and treatment approach tailored to your individual needs. Dr. Wood uses advanced technology and techniques to help diagnose and treat malocclusions, helping you achieve a healthy, beautiful smile.
What are Bite Issues?
Malocclusion (aka bite issues) is a dental condition characterized by misalignment of the teeth and jaws. Malocclusions can range from minor to severe and can affect the health of your teeth and overall oral health. Understanding the different types of malocclusions is vital for seeking proper treatment and maintaining optimal oral health.
Different Types of Bite Issues
There are several types of bite issues. Treatment will depend on a case-by-case basis. The best way to determine the best treatment is to consult Dr. Wood and his team. Treatment for various bite issues can include braces, clear aligners, or surgery.
The most common type of malocclusion is an overbite. An overbite occurs when the upper teeth extend over the lower teeth. It can cause problems with proper chewing, leading to further dental issues, such as excessive wear on the lower teeth.
Another common type of malocclusion is an open bite. An open bite occurs when the top and bottom teeth do not meet when the mouth is closed. This can cause difficulty with chewing and speaking, leading to further dental problems.
Underbite is another type of malocclusion. An underbite occurs when the lower teeth extend out before the upper teeth.
Crossbite is another type of malocclusion. A crossbite occurs when one or more of the upper teeth bite on the inside of the lower teeth. This can lead to further dental issues, such as bite misalignment and tooth wear.
Finally, Dr. Wood may also diagnose a patient with a malocclusion called a deep bite. A deep bite occurs when the upper teeth completely cover the lower teeth when the mouth is closed. This can lead to tooth wear and can cause difficulty with proper chewing.
How Orthodontics Can Help Bite Issues
The first step in correcting malocclusions is to identify the cause of the issue and determine the best course of action for treatment. Braces may be necessary if a patient has a misaligned bite due to crooked or crowded teeth. Braces are designed to move the teeth into the correct position gradually, and when combined with regular visits to the orthodontist, this can help ensure the teeth are properly aligned.
In addition to braces, Dr. Wood may recommend other treatments such as jaw exercises, palatal expanders, and retainers. Jaw exercises can help strengthen the jaw muscles, improving the bite and reducing jaw pain. Palatal expanders are used to widen the upper jaw, making room for the teeth to move into the correct position. Finally, retainers are worn after braces to help maintain the new position of the teeth.
Dr. Wood and his staff will work with you at Wood Orthodontics to create a treatment plan tailored to your needs. During each visit, they will monitor your progress and make any necessary adjustments to ensure your teeth are moving in the correct direction. Malocclusions and bite issues can cause pain and discomfort. Still, with Dr. Wood and his team’s orthodontic treatment, you can get your teeth back into proper alignment, restoring your smile and improving your overall oral health.
Bite Issues in Weatherford
No matter what type of malocclusion you have, Dr. Wood and the team at Wood Orthodontics are here to help. We understand the importance of proper diagnosis and treatment of malocclusions. With the right diagnosis and treatment, you can reach a healthier, more confident you. We will work with you to develop an individualized treatment plan to help you achieve a healthy, beautiful smile. Schedule an appointment today.