Bite Plates: A Powerful Tool for Correcting Deep Bites
Deep bites, also known as excessive overbites, are one of the most common orthodontic issues. Left untreated, they can cause significant damage to your teeth, gums, and jaw over time. One of the most effective tools orthodontists use to address this problem is the bite plate.
This blog will break down how bite plates work, why they’re used alongside braces, the risks of leaving a deep bite untreated, and why Dr. Nathan Nourian is a trusted expert in using bite plates to correct deep bites efficiently and effectively.
What Is a Bite Plate?
A bite plate is a small orthodontic appliance made from acrylic and wire. It is custom-made to fit your mouth and is usually removable, although some designs can be fixed to the teeth. Bite plates are primarily used to correct a deep bite, where the upper front teeth overlap the lower front teeth excessively.
How Does a Bite Plate Work?
The bite plate works by changing how your teeth come together when you bite. It creates space between the upper and lower teeth, allowing the back teeth to erupt naturally and correcting the overlap over time.
Here’s how it works step-by-step:
Repositions the Bite: The bite plate keeps the upper front teeth from contacting the lower front teeth, allowing the lower jaw to function in a healthier position.
Promotes Eruption of Back Teeth: With the bite plate in place, the back teeth gradually erupt to balance the bite.
Relieves Pressure: By reducing pressure on the lower front teeth, the bite plate helps protect them from damage and wear.
Why Wear a Bite Plate with Braces?
While braces straighten and align your teeth, they alone may not correct the vertical overlap of a deep bite. Bite plates work alongside braces to open the bite and ensure proper alignment.
Using a bite plate in conjunction with braces is essential to:
Prevent excessive wear on the lower front teeth.
Promote long-term jaw health by correcting the bite alignment.
Achieve a balanced and functional smile that braces alone cannot provide.
Why Is a Deep Bite Dangerous?
A deep bite isn’t just an aesthetic issue—it’s a health concern that can lead to serious dental problems over time. Here’s why:
Tooth Damage: A deep bite places excessive pressure on the lower front teeth, causing chipping, cracking, or even wear down to the gum line.
Gum Recession: Constant contact with the upper teeth can irritate the gums behind the lower front teeth, leading to recession or damage.
Jaw Problems: A deep bite can strain the jaw joint, potentially causing pain or TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorders.
Chewing Difficulties: Misaligned bites can make it harder to chew food effectively, affecting digestion and overall oral health.
Is Wearing a Bite Plate Comfortable?
Adjusting to a bite plate may take a few days, but most patients find it relatively comfortable once they get used to it. You may experience some initial soreness or changes in speech, but these are temporary and typically resolve quickly.
To maximize comfort and effectiveness, it’s important to:
Wear the bite plate as instructed, typically 22-24 hours per day, removing it only for eating and cleaning.
Practice speaking with it to adapt faster.
Correcting Deep Bites Quickly and Efficiently
Bite plates are incredibly effective when used under the guidance of a skilled orthodontist. At Textbook Orthodontics, Dr. Nathan Nourian specializes in treating deep bites with precision and care.
Dr. Nourian combines the use of bite plates with advanced braces techniques to correct deep bites quickly and efficiently, helping patients achieve healthier, balanced smiles in less time. His expertise ensures optimal results, reducing the risk of tooth damage and improving overall oral health.
Transform Your Smile with Dr. Nathan Nourian
Don’t let a deep bite compromise your oral health. Dr. Nathan Nourian is an expert in using bite plates to treat deep bites, protecting your teeth and creating beautiful, functional smiles.
Schedule a consultation today at Textbook Orthodontics to find out how a bite plate can help you achieve a healthier, more confident smile!
