If you are wondering, can braces fix an open bite, the answer is yes! Braces are a common and effective treatment for correcting an open bite. By gradually moving the teeth into proper alignment, braces can help close the gap between the upper and lower front teeth, restoring proper bite function and improving the overall appearance of the smile.
What Causes An Open Bite?
An open bite is a condition in which the upper front teeth don’t fully contact the lower front teeth. This condition is typically caused by:
- Excessive thumb sucking as a child
- Hereditary abnormalities in the jaw structure or tooth structure
- Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ)
Can An Open Bite Be Caused By Prolonged Pacifier Use?
Yes, prolonged pacifier use can indeed cause an open bite. When a child consistently uses a pacifier, it can interfere with the natural alignment and development of their teeth. This habit exerts pressure on the upper teeth, pushing them forward while the lower teeth are pushed backward, leading to a type of malocclusion known as an open bite.
An open bite specifically refers to a condition where the upper and lower teeth do not meet when the mouth is closed. This gap can impact not just the appearance of the teeth but also functions like chewing and speech.
How does this happen?
When a child sucks on a pacifier, the oral muscles and structures adapt to accommodate this foreign object. Over time, this repetitive action can alter the normal growth pattern of the teeth and jaws. The severity of this open bite largely depends on how often and how long the child uses the pacifier.
Is it reversible?
In many cases, stopping pacifier use early can allow a child’s teeth to naturally realign as they grow. However, if the habit persists beyond the age of three or four, the open bite can become more pronounced and less likely to correct itself without professional intervention.
Overall, while pacifiers can be soothing for infants, it’s essential to monitor their use and gradually reduce dependence as the child grows older to prevent potential dental issues like an open bite.
Thumb sucking is a contributing factor in 10-15% of open bite cases
What Problems Can An Open Bite Cause?
Typical problems associated with an open bite include:
- Difficulty or painful chewing
- Speech impairment
- TMJ disorders
Approximately 16% of children have some form of malocclusion, including open bite
How Do You Correct An Open Bite?
The team at Zaytoun Orthodontics offers a variety of solutions to fix an open bite, designed to suit the needs of every patient that visits our offices:
- Invisalign®
- A less invasive treatment than traditional braces, popular with adults and an excellent treatment to fix an open bite condition.
- Traditional Braces
- The most proven, efficient, and effective method for correcting open bites.
- Damon System® Braces
- Ann innovative system that uses a slide wire with brackets, removing the need for rubber bands or tightening.
- In-Ovation® Braces
- In-Ovation requires fewer appointments and less invasive treatment. There are two different varieties of In-Ovation to choose from:
- In-Ovation R: In-Ovation R has smaller brackets and does not require elastic or metal ties. Less irritation and plaque build-up.
- In-Ovation C: At first glance, In-Ovation C brackets are difficult to spot. They are translucent and ceramic, giving a more pleasing look.
- In-Ovation requires fewer appointments and less invasive treatment. There are two different varieties of In-Ovation to choose from:
Finding support and gathering more information about the causes and treatments for open bite can be very helpful. Engaging with online communities and forums allows you to connect with others who have similar concerns or experiences. Here are some platforms where you can seek advice and share insights:
- Reddit – r/Dentistry: A community where you can find discussions and personal experiences related to various dental issues, including open bite.
- Reddit – r/orthotropics: Focuses on facial growth guidance and issues related to orthodontics, making it a useful resource for learning more about open bite.
- Quora: Simply search for questions related to open bite and you’ll find numerous answers from dental professionals and individuals who have faced similar issues.
- ArchWired Forum: Dedicated to adult orthodontics, this forum has sections on various dental conditions, including open bite.
- RealSelf Dental Forum: Users share their personal stories and questions, and professionals often contribute their expert advice on dental health, including open bite topics.
Conclusion
If you are experiencing an open bite, schedule a consultation with Zaytoun Orthodontics today to explore your treatment options and start your journey towards a straighter, healthier smile.
I’ve been around orthodontics for as long as I can remember with my father opening Zaytoun Orthodontics in 1959. That upbringing of being around my father and watching him change lives through perfecting smiles helped guide me in figuring out what I wanted to do when I grew up, which was to be in the healthcare field. Orthodontics for over 30 years. Joining my father and sister was a thrill for me and something that sets us apart from other orthodontists.
