Properly biting is essential for comfortable chewing, speaking, and preventing long-term dental issues. Misaligned teeth can contribute to jaw discomfort, headaches, tooth wear, and even TMJ problems. Bite adjustment in North Andover can address these concerns by removing negligible interferences preventing your teeth from coming together correctly. This procedure lets your jaw settle into its natural, comfortable position, relieving unnecessary strain on the muscles and joints.
How Do You Know If You Need a Dental Bite Adjustment?
Your dentist in Andover will thoroughly examine your bite during a routine exam to determine if adjustments are needed. Signs that you may need a tooth adjustment include:
- Uneven jaw movement.
- Clicking noises when opening the mouth.
- Visible wear on the enamel or fractured teeth.
In many cases, patients with a misaligned bite also experience symptoms like teeth grinding (bruxism), frequent headaches, and neck pain. These issues may indicate that your jaw isn’t closing correctly, leading to discomfort and long-term oral health problems.
The Bite Adjustment Process
The dental bite adjustment procedure is relatively simple and minimally invasive. The dentist begins by using a thin piece of mylar paper, which is placed between the teeth while you bite down. This paper leaves colored marks on the teeth where there are interferences or points of contact. The dentist will carefully smooth these areas, removing small amounts of tooth structure or dental restorations as necessary to eliminate the interference. This process is repeated until your bite feels balanced and comfortable.
If you have had recent dental work, such as fillings or crowns, you may require a filling bite adjustment to ensure your new restoration does not interfere with your bite. Similarly, patients undergoing Invisalign bite adjustment may need this procedure as their teeth shift into proper alignment.
Benefits of Bite Adjustment
Correcting your bite can alleviate many uncomfortable symptoms associated with a misaligned jaw. Reducing tension in the jaw muscles can relieve headaches, prevent excessive tooth wear, and even reduce the risk of gum recession. Adjusting the bite allows your jaw to move naturally, allowing muscles to relax and promoting oral health.
To learn more about bite adjustments or to schedule a consultation with Dr. Mariam Khan at North Andover Dental Partners, contact our office at 451 Andover St STE 208, North Andover, MA, 01845 today. We are here to help restore your comfort and improve your bite alignment for optimal oral health.
