Harmonizing the bite to protect tooth wear, or Occlusal Analysis, is one of the most important components in keeping a mouth healthy. Bite, or occlusion, is the way our teeth function or interact when we close our mouths or when we chew. This is the relationship between the upper and lower teeth. In a situation when a person's bite has poor function, a person can develop:
An occlusal analysis may be the source to discover current or potential dental problems. For example, an increased frequency of lost fillings or broken teeth for no apparent reason may be a sign of a collapsed or unstable bite. Improper occlusions, or bad bites, often result from:
Sometimes the grinding or clenching habit can be occuring without any noticeable signs or symptoms. Grinding and/or clenching causes teeth wear, flattening, and, at times, even fracture. Over time as this occurs, the functional relationship between the upper and lower teeth deteriorates even further, increasing the intensity and incidence of the detrimental habit.
Teeth need to be sharp and pointed to cut through food; this is their primary purpose. As the sharp cusps are abraded away and become blunt, chewing becomes less effective. Greater burden on the digestive system develops as improperly chewed food is swallowed.
At Joyful Dental Care, great attention is placed on a properly balanced bite. Impressions for are taken for bruxism appliances to ensure fit and alignment. Please ask us how this works for you!