What Is a Deep Bite and Why Does It Matter for Dental Health?
A deep bite happens when a person’s upper front teeth extend excessively over the lower front teeth in the vertical plane of space when the bite is closed. This condition can significantly impact dental health, affecting not only the appearance of a smile but also leading to issues with chewing, gum recession, and tooth wear if left untreated.
While a mild overbite is normal, a pronounced deep bite can lead to functional issues, gum tissue recession, excessive wear on the teeth, and even long-term esthetic concerns.
30 Years of Orthodontic Treatment in Riverside County
Burke & Redford Orthodontists, with offices located in Temecula and Lake Elsinore, California, is the trusted choice for orthodontic care in the Temecula Valley. Dr. Ryan Redford and Dr. Burke are highly recommended by local dentists and specialize in treating complex cases, including deep bites, with advanced orthodontic techniques.
For children and teenagers, early intervention in addressing deep bites is critical. Early treatment can help prevent dental complications as children grow, leading to healthier, more balanced smiles.
Biomechanics of Tooth Intrusion: A Controlled Approach to Deep Bite Correction
Correcting a deep bite involves a process known as intrusion mechanics, where force is applied to move the upper or lower front teeth vertically to achieve a balanced bite.
This approach requires a delicate balance; too much force can negatively affect the tooth roots and surrounding structures, while too little force may not provide the desired effect. Dr. Redford uses controlled, minimally invasive techniques to achieve safe and effective tooth intrusion.
The biological process of tooth intrusion involves the remodeling of the bone around the teeth and the controlled remodeling of the periodontal ligament. This targeted vertical movement is achieved with precision, allowing the teeth to settle into a healthy and stable position.
Orthodontic Techniques for Safe and Effective Tooth Intrusion
Correcting a deep bite with tooth intrusion can involve a combination of techniques and devices, including specialized anchorage devices, self-ligating braces, and in some cases, clear aligners. Here is a look at the primary methods used to safely achieve intrusion:
Mini-Implants and Temporary Anchorage Devices (TADs)
Mini-implants or TADs are small devices placed temporarily in the bone to act as an anchor. They provide a stable foundation for applying precise force on the teeth. This allows Dr. Redford to control the vertical movement of specific teeth without affecting others, which is especially useful in complex deep bite cases.
Self-Ligating Braces (e.g., Damon Braces)
Self-ligating braces, such as Damon braces, act as anchor points to the teeth and are widely used for straightening teeth and correcting bites. Unlike traditional braces, self-ligating braces use a sliding door mechanism to secure the archwire. This can be advantageous in making braces adjustment appointments quick and easy.
These braces come in both metal and ceramic options, giving patients flexibility in choosing a treatment option that meets their esthetic preferences.
Archwires and Controlled Force Application
Specialized archwires and force mechanisms are often used in conjunction with self-ligating braces to help achieve vertical movement. By applying gentle, sustained pressure, these archwires encourage the upper or lower front teeth to move to the correct vertical position gradually, keeping surrounding bone and gum tissue healthy along the way.
Invisalign for Mild Intrusion Needs
While Invisalign and other clear aligners may not always be suitable for severe cases, they can provide effective results for mild to moderate deep bites.
The custom-made aligners are designed to apply consistent force, gradually shifting teeth into place. Invisalign also has specific “bite ramps” to address deep bites, making it a viable option for patients who prefer a less visible solution.
Why Early Intervention Matters for Deep Bite Correction
For children and teenagers, addressing deep bites early is especially important. As the jaw develops during adolescence, correcting bite issues while the bone is still “pliable” can lead to more efficient, effective, and long-lasting results.
By utilizing minimally invasive methods, Dr. Redford and the team at Burke & Redford Orthodontists help prevent more complex issues that may require surgical intervention in adulthood.
Fixing a deep bite enhances both oral function and facial appearance, contributing to overall dental health and esthetics.
A balanced bite supports proper jaw alignment, enhances the facial profile, and allows for natural lip closure around the teeth when at rest. Additionally, proper alignment helps prevent gum recession, tooth wear, and other long-term complications associated with untreated deep bites.
Here are other ways that Burke & Redford Orthodontists incorporate orthodontic appliances with braces treatment to address deep bites effectively:
Using Orthodontic Appliances with Braces for Deep Bites
For complex cases of deep bites, especially in growing children and teenagers, appliances are often paired with braces to guide teeth and jaw development. This multi-faceted approach helps ensure effective treatment and long-term stability. Here are some common appliances used:
Bite Turbos
Small, smooth blocks placed on the back of upper front teeth. These blocks help open the bite at the back of the mouth, creating space for back teeth to shift vertically into a proper relationship and reducing pressure on the front teeth. These devices also help to prevent the patient from biting on their lower braces when they are first placed.
Herbst Appliance
Used to correct excess front-to-back (horizontal) overbites, the Herbst appliance encourages proper bite alignment in more than one plane of space, which is beneficial for patients with deep bites and severe overjet.
Palatal Expanders
While typically used to widen a narrow jaw, expanders can also improve bite alignment in conjunction with braces. This helps in cases where the upper jaw width impacts the overall bite.
Elastics (Rubber Bands)
These are attached to specific brackets to apply gentle force in the vertical direction, assisting in aligning the upper and lower teeth effectively to correct the bite.
With Burke & Redford’s personalized treatment plans, these appliances, combined with self-ligating braces or Invisalign, can transform smiles while improving function.
Benefits of Deep Bite Correction for Long-Term Health
– Improved Chewing and Biting Efficiency: A corrected bite ensures that the teeth fit together properly, making chewing and biting more comfortable and efficient.
– Reduced Tooth Wear: With proper bite alignment, the front teeth are less likely to experience excessive wear, which can help preserve tooth structure and enamel over time.
– Enhanced Esthetics and Self-Confidence: By correcting deep bites, patients enjoy not only improved functionality but also a balanced smile that enhances their appearance.
– Prevention of Future Dental Complications: Addressing deep bite issues early can reduce the risk of developing conditions like abrasion and gum recession in the future.
Request a Consultation for Your Child or Teen’s Orthodontic Needs
Dr. Ryan Redford at Burke & Redford Orthodontists provides high-quality, patient-centered care for families in the Temecula Valley. With specialized training in advanced techniques like cortical anchorage, mini-implants, and self-ligating braces, Dr. Redford is able to offer personalized solutions for each patient’s unique orthodontic needs.
Parents in the Temecula Valley can request a consultation by calling the office on (951) 699-8011 or visiting the website to fill out the secure form. Start your child or teenager’s orthodontic journey to a healthy, balanced smile with a trusted orthodontic practice that has served the community for over 30 years.