How We Improve Bite Function

bite functionPoor bite function means there are issues with how your smile fits together, and this strain could cause inflammation, wear and friction, discomfort, and the onset of serious oral health issues. Fortunately, your Omaha, NE, dentist knows how to help improve bite function with a custom oral appliance!

The Dangers of an Imbalanced Bite

Our bite could become imbalanced due to issues with the growth of our jaw or the eruption of our teeth, or as the result of injury to the face or jaw. Other cause could include tooth loss, misalignment, teeth grinding and clenching. The imbalance then strains the jaw joints, and lead to a greater likelihood of major oral health complications, including TMJ disorder and bruxism.

TMD and Bruxism

TMJ disorder, also known as TMD, means you eventually have trouble fully opening and closing your mouth. The disorder could also lead to a popping or clicking sensation in your jaw, as well as pain in your face, jaw, neck, or shoulders. Headaches and migraines are common as well. Bruxism means that you begin grinding and clenching your teeth frequently in your sleep. The pressure also leads to headaches, migraines, and jaw pain, as well as tooth sensitivity and toothaches. Lack of treatment could mean the pressure warns down enamel or cracks/chips the tooth. The damage then increases the risk of tooth decay and dental infection.

Oral Appliance Treatment

If you have discomfort due to an imbalanced bite, we can help. We start by taking detailed impressions and images of your smile, and also gathering measurements. This information enables our team to design and create an appliance that will look and fit like a mouthguard. The device then repositions the jaw to ease strain and prevent complications related to TMD and bruxism. The appliance also helps prevent further damage to the teeth by placing a strong barrier between your upper and lower sets of teeth. We also use oral appliance therapy to address other oral health issues, including sleep apnea. If you have any questions about improve bite function, then contact our team today. Remember, if you experience one or more of the symptoms we’ve discussed in this blog, then contact our team today for a consultation and to discuss possible solutions!

Do You Have Questions About TMD Treatment?

A custom oral appliance provides relief from the symptoms of issues like TMJ disorder and bruxism (teeth grinding). To learn more about treating bite imbalance and putting a stop to issues like TMD or teeth grinding, then schedule a consultation by calling Pacific Hills Dental in Omaha, NE, today at (402) 330-2243. We also serve the residents of Papillion, Elkhorn, La Vista, Millard, and all surrounding communities.