Millions of patients each year turn to oral surgery to correct disorders of the chin, jaw, and jaw joint. For many patients, the treatment is part of a joint effort between the oral surgeon, the orthodontist, and the general dentist.
An open bite, a condition in which the teeth fail to come together even when the jaw is completely closed, is often corrected with jaw surgery. In some mild cases, an open bite can be corrected with orthodontics, or braces, alone. For more advanced cases, it is necessary to reposition the upper or lower jaw to resolve the issue.
An oral surgeon is a dentist who has received specialized training in surgical procedures related to the health of the head, neck, and face. This training includes a particular focus on anesthesiology, emergency medicine, and pharmacology. The additional education and experience in these areas prepares oral surgeons to care for you before, during, and after your surgical procedure. After a clinical examination, your oral surgeon can determine if surgical intervention can improve your condition.
The risks of ignoring an open bite can be detrimental to your dental health as well as the health of your jaw joint.
The risks of ignoring an open bite can be detrimental to your dental health as well as the health of your jaw joint. In addition to the impact on the facial profile, most patients experience inefficient, uncomfortable, or unbalanced chewing. Less than optimal chewing can contribute to poor digestion and stress on the jaw joint.
In time, the jaw joint can develop symptoms similar to arthritis, muscle strain, and pain. Popping and clicking in the jaw joint is another common symptom related to a dysfunctional chewing pattern.
The teeth may begin to wear at an abnormal rate as the chewing pattern is compromised. The wear and tear on the teeth may also extend to the gum tissue and underlying bone, leading to recession and bone loss.
An open bite may also contribute to dry mouth and related symptoms if you are unable to completely close the mouth.
For more information and to schedule a consultation in Dallas or the surrounding areas, contact Northern Texas Facial & Oral Surgery today.
