How a Misaligned Bite Can Cause Wear on Your Teeth
Our teeth and jaws are intricate systems designed to work in harmony. When everything is aligned correctly, chewing, speaking, and even smiling happens smoothly. However, a misaligned bite—also known as malocclusion—can disrupt this harmony, leading to various dental problems. One of the most common issues caused by a misaligned bite is abnormal tooth wear. Let's explore how this happens and why it's crucial to address it.
Understanding Malocclusion
A properly aligned bite means that your upper and lower teeth fit together comfortably when you close your mouth. This alignment allows for even distribution of pressure across all teeth when you bite and chew. Malocclusion, on the other hand, occurs when there's a misalignment in the way your upper and lower teeth meet. This can happen due to several reasons:
- Genetics: Often, misaligned bites are inherited.
- Childhood habits: Thumb sucking, prolonged bottle-feeding, or pacifier use can affect jaw development.
- Injury: Trauma to the jaw or teeth can lead to misalignment.
- Tooth loss: Missing teeth can cause remaining teeth to shift out of place.
- Dental work: Improper dental restorations can sometimes alter bite alignment.
How Misalignment Causes Tooth Wear
When your bite is misaligned, certain teeth may bear more force than they are designed to handle. This uneven distribution of pressure can lead to various forms of tooth wear:
- Attrition: Attrition occurs due to tooth-to-tooth contact. In a misaligned bite, certain teeth may rub against each other excessively. Over time, this constant friction can wear down the enamel, the hard outer layer of your teeth. This wear can lead to a flatter, shorter appearance of the affected teeth and can make them more susceptible to sensitivity and decay.
- Erosion: While erosion is primarily caused by acidic foods and drinks, a misaligned bite can exacerbate this process. If certain teeth are subjected to constant pressure, they may become more vulnerable to acid attacks, further wearing down the enamel.
- Abrasion: Abrasion is the wear caused by external forces, like aggressive brushing. Teeth that are not aligned properly may be harder to clean effectively, leading to more aggressive brushing and, consequently, increased wear.
- Chipping and Cracking: Misaligned bites can cause certain teeth to absorb more force during biting and chewing. This can lead to chipping or cracking, particularly in the front teeth or teeth that are not designed to handle heavy loads.
Consequences of Tooth Wear
Tooth wear might seem like a minor issue, but its consequences can be significant:
- Sensitivity: Worn enamel exposes the dentin layer underneath, which can cause increased sensitivity to hot, cold, and sweet foods.
- Aesthetic concerns: Worn teeth can look shorter and flatter, affecting the appearance of your smile.
- Functional problems: Severe wear can alter the way your teeth fit together, potentially leading to problems with chewing and speaking.
- Increased risk of decay: Enamel is the tooth's first line of defense against decay. Worn enamel can make teeth more vulnerable to cavities.
Addressing a Misaligned Bite
If you suspect that your bite is misaligned, it's essential to consult with a dental professional. They can diagnose the issue and recommend appropriate treatments, which may include:
- Orthodontic treatment: Braces or Invisalign can correct misaligned teeth and improve bite alignment.
- Dental restorations: Crowns, veneers, or bonding can repair worn teeth and restore their function and appearance.
- Bite adjustment: Sometimes, reshaping the biting surfaces of the teeth can improve how they fit together.
- Mouthguards: In cases of bruxism (teeth grinding), a custom-made mouthguard can protect teeth from further wear.
Contact Blooming Smiles for Orthodontic Treatment in Woodland Hills or Northridge
If you would like to learn more about how orthodontic treatment can treat a misaligned bite, contact our team at Blooming Smiles to learn if braces or Invisalign in Woodland Hills is right for you!
