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Windsor Centre For Advanced Dentistry

life changing dentistry

Deep Bite 

A deep bite is an incredibly common condition affecting people of all ages, including young children and older adults.  Also known as a dental malocclusion and misalignment, a deep bite is when there is an excessive overlap between the upper and lower front when the jaw closes.

A deep bite can have an impact on the aesthetics of the face. But it also goes beyond being an aesthetic dentistry issue and can cause a number of different oral health concerns, including damage to the teeth and gums, as well as headaches, temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ), and hearing difficulties. 

What causes deep bite?

A deep bite often occurs when the teeth and jaw are misaligned but can also be caused by periodontal disease (gum disease), worn, broken down teeth, or due to the loss of teeth in the back of the mouth.

If not properly treated, a bad bite can lead to significant teeth and gum damage, excessive tooth wear, headaches, hearing and digestive problems and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders. As with any dental concerns, there are several different factors that can cause a deep bite, including:

  • Genetics and inadequate jaw development and growth
  • Missing teeth, in particular missing back teeth
  • Periodontal (gum) disease
  • Teeth crowding
  • Worn, decayed or broken down teeth
  • Failing dental work
  • Teeth clenching and grinding habits
  • Habits such as thumb sucking, nail biting and grinding teeth.

Deep bite Correction treatments

Thankfully, deep bite correction can be carried out with several effective orthodontic treatment options using various types of braces. In younger patients, this is usually the treatment of choice and deep bite correction will improve the functionality of your teeth, reduce tooth wear, help keep the teeth healthy making flossing and brushing easier, and improve your confidence and smile of course.

However, in older patients and patients where there is significant tooth wear, missing or broken down teeth, restorative treatment is also often required.  Deep bite treatment often requires a multi-discipline approach, involving both orthodontics and restorative dentistry.

How to fix deep bite, cross-bite, or over-bite in adults

Orthodontic treatment for deep bite correction are available here at Advanced Dentistry include:

  • Hidden (Lingual) braces
  • Conventional fixed (labial) braces
  • Clear braces
  • Clear aligners Invisalign©

As well as having braces as part of orthodontic treatment to for deep bite correction, there will likely be some restorative work needed to teeth that have become worn away.

Whilst deep bite correction in adults will be judged on a case-by-case basis, restoring the teeth can be carried out using several techniques including:

  • Composite bonding to build up worn teeth
  • Porcelain veneers and overlays
  • Crowns, Bridges, and Dental Implants.

If restoration of missing teeth is needed, this can be achieved through dental implants and/or bridge work. Often, deep overbites can be corrected as part of orthodontic treatment. However, in severe cases of deep bite, the patient may require orthognathic surgery to correct the teeth and jaw.

Dental case studies

Read some of our case studies or call us on 01753 833 755 to find out how our treatment options for a deep bite can help restore your smile and your confidence.

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