You’ve likely heard the phrase, “Dog bites man, who cares? Man bites dog, now that’s news!” Journalists lean on this expression to explain why they highlight unusual stories instead of more ordinary ones. But if you lack correct bite alignment, it may be a newsworthy occurrence if you manage to bite anything at all: dog, cat, sandwich, etc.
It’s not exactly news, of course, that incorrect bite alignment is common. Fortunately, our orthodontists at Orthodontics Associates of WNY are here to help you correct all manner of bite alignment issues.
How Does Incorrect Bite Alignment Happen?
Incorrect bite alignment—also known as malocclusion—is often hereditary. However, other causes exist. These include:
- Crooked teeth
- Jaw asymmetry
- Tooth crowding
- Tooth loss
And bite alignment issues aren’t uncommon. In fact, they afflict about 56% of people worldwide. According to a 2024 study in the Journal of Dentistry & Oral Disorders, the countries where correct bite alignment issues occur most frequently are:
- Brazil
- Libya
- Iran
- Italy
Not every case of malocclusion needs treatment, but it’s worth noting that the condition is a worldwide issue. If your bite does need correction, Orthodontists Associates of WNY is here to help you achieve a healthier smile.
Types of Correct Bite Alignment Issues
To determine the type and extent of your malocclusion issue, your orthodontist will take X-rays and molds of your mouth. It’s important to know what you’re dealing with and how best to approach it, as certain types of malocclusion can result in:
- Alterations in facial structure and appearance
- Biting the tongue and cheeks
- Problems eating
- Speech difficulties
After imaging is complete, your orthodontist will classify your bite alignment issue. The commonly used Ackerman and Proffit malocclusion classification system sorts correct bite alignment issues into 6 classes:
- Class I: Your jaw aligns normally, but your upper teeth protrude slightly beyond your lower ones.
- Class II: Your upper teeth protrude profoundly beyond your lower teeth; your jaw is also underdeveloped.
- Class III: Your lower teeth protrude profoundly beyond your upper teeth; your jaw is overdeveloped, as well.
- Class IV: Your upper teeth rest significantly behind your lower teeth.
- Class V: Your upper teeth protrude significantly beyond your lower teeth; your jaw is overdeveloped.
- Class VI: Your lower teeth rest significantly behind your upper teeth.
Your orthodontist uses these systems to help diagnose your specific bite alignment issue. Many conditions exist, including:
Crossbite
There are different types of crossbites. For example, an anterior crossbite causes your lower front teeth to sit in front of your upper front teeth. Posterior crossbite causes your upper back teeth to rest inside, rather than atop, your lower back teeth.
Crowding
If your teeth are too large, your jaw is too small, or your mouth generally lacks sufficient space to fit all your teeth, you can experience crowding. During crowding, your teeth can wind up in unnatural layers. They can even twist in their sockets.
Open Bite
An open bite causes your upper front teeth to miss meeting your lower front teeth when you close your mouth.
Overbite
An overbite causes your upper teeth to jut out beyond your lower teeth by more than the average 2 to 4 millimeters.
Overjet
Overjet is the technical term for buck teeth—that is, when your front teeth protrude over your bottom teeth more than is normal.
Underbite
An underbite is the opposite of an overbite. It’s when your bottom front teeth protrude beyond the boundary of your upper front teeth.
How To Correct Bite Alignment Issues
The way your teeth fit together can make a big difference in your overall well-being. Fortunately, there are ways to fix bite misalignment. These include:
- Braces or aligners: Traditional metal braces or clear aligners, such as Invisalign®, can help correct misalignment.
- Expanders: Palatal expanders widen the upper jaw to improve the alignment between the upper and lower jaws.
- Extractions: Occasionally, teeth may be removed to reduce overcrowding.
- Headgear or other functional appliances: These orthodontic devices help influence jaw growth and positioning.
- Jaw surgery: In some cases, surgery is necessary to correct severe bite issues, particularly in adults.
Happily, correcting bite alignment usually has very positive outcomes. It’s often easier and more affordable to address these issues in children, but adults can certainly benefit from treatment, too.
Contact Orthodontists Associates of WNY for a Consultation
Bite alignment issues can be distressing. They can affect your confidence, comfort, and general oral function. You may find yourself unable to eat properly or unwilling to smile openly.
At Orthodontists Associates of WNY, we want to help you correct bite alignment issues. Contact us at one of our 7 locations for a free consultation. We’ll work together to make bite misalignment yesterday’s news.
