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Ever tried biting into pizza but can’t with your front teeth?

You may have an OPEN BITE!

What is an Open Bite and How Can Orthodontics Help?

When it comes to orthodontic issues, an open bite is one of the less common but often more complex conditions that patients encounter. Understanding what it is, why it happens, and how it can be treated is essential for anyone considering orthodontic care. In this blog, we’ll break down everything you need to know about open bites and how modern orthodontics can help.


What is an Open Bite?

An open bite occurs when the upper and lower teeth do not meet when the mouth is closed. This results in a gap or space between the teeth, which can be present in the front (anterior open bite) or the back (posterior open bite) of the mouth. Open bites can affect both appearance and function, making it challenging to bite, chew, or even speak clearly.


What Causes an Open Bite?

Several factors can contribute to the development of an open bite:

  1. Habits: Prolonged thumb-sucking, pacifier use, or tongue thrusting can interfere with proper dental alignment.
  2. Genetics: Some individuals inherit jaw growth patterns that predispose them to an open bite.
  3. Skeletal Imbalance: Discrepancies in jaw growth or alignment can lead to an open bite, particularly if the upper and lower jaws don’t grow symmetrically.
  4. Airway Issues: Chronic mouth breathing due to enlarged tonsils, adenoids, or nasal obstructions can influence the positioning of the jaws and teeth over time.
  5. Dental Issues: Early loss of baby teeth or poor eruption patterns of permanent teeth may also contribute.

Why Should an Open Bite Be Treated?

An untreated open bite can lead to a variety of complications, including:

  • Difficulty Eating: Biting into foods like sandwiches, apples, or pizza can become frustrating.
  • Speech Impairments: Certain sounds, like “S” and “Z,” can be harder to articulate.
  • Aesthetic Concerns: The gap caused by an open bite can impact your smile’s appearance and self-confidence.
  • Jaw Strain: Misaligned bites can lead to jaw discomfort or temporomandibular joint (TMJ) issues over time.
  • Tooth Wear: Improper bite alignment can cause uneven wear on the teeth.

How Can Orthodontics Help Correct an Open Bite?

The good news is that modern orthodontics offers a range of solutions to address open bites, depending on their severity and underlying causes. At Broadbeach Orthodontics, we tailor each treatment plan to meet the unique needs of our patients.

1. Behavioural Modifications

  • If habits like thumb-sucking or tongue thrusting are contributing to an open bite, addressing these behaviours is the first step. Habit-breaking appliances or therapy with a myofunctional therapist can be helpful.

2. Braces

  • Traditional braces can gradually move teeth into the correct position, closing the gap caused by an open bite. Braces are particularly effective for dental open bites that don’t involve skeletal issues.

3. Clear Aligners

  • Clear aligners like Angel Aligners or Invisalign offer a discreet and comfortable option for treating mild to moderate open bites. They use a series of custom trays to shift teeth into alignment.

4. Bite Blocks or Elastics

  • Orthodontists may use specialised tools like bite blocks or elastic bands to guide jaw and tooth movement, particularly in younger patients whose jaws are still developing.

5. Surgical Options

  • For severe open bites caused by skeletal discrepancies, orthognathic (jaw) surgery may be necessary to reposition the jaws. This is often combined with orthodontic treatment to achieve optimal results.

Why Early Intervention Matters

Open bites are often easier to treat when detected early. A child’s growing jaws are more malleable, making it possible to address skeletal imbalances or habits before they become ingrained. This is why we recommend bringing your child for an orthodontic assessment by age 7.

For adults, it’s never too late to seek treatment. Advances in technology mean we can correct even complex cases with less invasive techniques than ever before.


Your Smile, Our Priority

At Broadbeach Orthodontics, we’re here to help you achieve a healthy, confident smile. Whether you’re dealing with an open bite or another orthodontic concern, our team is dedicated to finding the right solution for you. With options ranging from clear aligners to LightForce braces, we put you and your family first.

If you’d like to learn more about how we can help, book a consultation today. Your journey to a beautifully aligned and functional smile starts here!

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