Open BiteAn Overview
What is an open bite?
An open bite is when some or all of the upper and lower teeth do not correctly come into contact with each other. An ideal bite is when the upper teeth will slightly overlap the bottom teeth by about 25%. Open bites can typically be diagnosed in a child’s early oral development.
Open bites are commonly associated with a skeletal formation or can be caused by developmental myofunctional habits like thumb sucking, sucking of the lower lip, tongue forward posture or tongue thrust. The cause of the open bite will determine the appropriate treatment.
Open bites can be extremely embarrassing especially for children. A big gap between their bottom and top teeth will make them too self-conscience to smile. Not only does it affect the appearance of their smile, but it can also lead to speech issues. An open bite can make it difficult for some children to talk leading to lisps or speech impediments.
What is Tongue Thrust?
Tongue thrust is a common habit that children develop early on in life. Children push their tongue forward, instead of relaxing it back while swallowing, speaking or resting their tongue. The habitual pattern of the tongue pushing forward on the teeth can cause the jaw and teeth to become misaligned. Tongue thrusting during early oral development can impact the facial and skeletal structure of your child.
Izadi Orthodontics encourages early intervention and treatment of open bites to prevent further complications. Most orthodontists will agree that all children should be evaluated by age seven to see if their jaw and teeth are developing correctly. Early intervention is extremely important because children with open bites can have difficulty speaking and eating. Treating open bites early in the development of the primary teeth can prevent speech impediments and improve the quality of your child’s life. Early intervention also takes advantage of child’s still growing jaw.
Dr. Izadi and his staff are the best! He ALWAYS has a positive attitude and a smile, in addition to being a true professional in every sense. Dr. Izadi came highly recommended by a friend, whose 3 sons had braces with him, and she was so very right -- You…Kathy S.
Love this office and the orthodontist. I have 2 boys in braces. One had them put on at 8. They are never in pain and always excited to go. They explain everything to the boys and make them a part of their care.Teara W.
We have been going to Dr izadi for about 4 years at the advice of our dentist. She could not have been any more right. He explains everything and is patient with questions. When we first started with him we did not have orthodontic insurance. They made payment arrangements with…Michelle A.
Open Bite What to Expect
Dr. Izadi and our orthodontic care team provide comprehensive analysis and personalized treatment plans for children with open bites. Our goal is to thoroughly analyze the skeletal structure and bite to provide targeted treatment for long-term results. The advances in dental technology have made treating children with open bites much easier and more realistic. Even though children will need early intervention, treatments are more comfortable, shorter in duration and will make it less likely for more involved future treatments.
Parents are encouraged to bring their children in for an orthodontic analysis as early as age 7. Early treatment can prevent further damage to the teeth and jaw. Dr. Izadi can help children stop the myofunctional habits that create open bites. Phased treatment and early intervention can prevent developmental speech issues and avoid damage to the bite and jaw.
Treatment Options for Open Bite
All treatment plans are personalized to the orthodontic needs of each patient. Using advanced analytic technology, digital imaging, and 3-D models, Izadi Orthodontics can provide more precise treatment that will support lasting orthodontic health with minimal inconvenience to our patients.
