Bad Bite or Misaligned Bite? We Can Help Align It
When your top and bottom teeth do not meet the way they should, it can affect how you chew, speak, and clean your teeth. A misaligned bite is very common and very treatable, and the right plan can bring your bite into balance at almost any age.
- Mesquite
- Garland
- Balch Springs
Why Bites Become Misaligned
A bad bite usually develops over time as the teeth and jaws grow into place. A few common factors are behind most of the bites we correct.
Inherited Jaw and Tooth Size
The most common reason. When the jaw and the teeth do not match in size, teeth can crowd or sit out of line, which shifts the bite.
Thumb Sucking or Pacifier Use
Long-term thumb sucking or pacifier use in childhood can push the front teeth forward or keep them from meeting, leading to an open bite.
Early or Late Tooth Loss
Losing baby teeth too soon, or adult teeth later in life, lets nearby teeth drift. The bite can settle into a poor position as they move.
Injury to the Mouth or Jaw
A blow to the face or jaw can shift teeth or change how the jaws line up, leaving the bite uneven afterward.
Mouth Breathing or Tongue Habits
Chronic mouth breathing or pushing the tongue against the front teeth can gradually move them and open the bite over time.
Poorly Fitting Dental Work
An old crown, filling, or bridge that sits too high or too low can throw the bite off, so the teeth no longer meet evenly.
The Four Most Common Bite Problems
Misaligned bites come in a few main types. Knowing which one you have helps us choose the right way to correct it. Here is a simple guide.
Overbite
The top front teeth cover too much of the bottom teeth. A deep overbite can wear the lower teeth and strain the jaw.
Underbite
The bottom front teeth sit in front of the top teeth. It can make chewing harder and put extra stress on the jaw.
Crossbite
Some top teeth close inside the bottom teeth instead of outside. Left alone, it can wear enamel and shift the jaw to one side.
Open Bite
The front teeth do not touch when the back teeth close. It can affect biting, speech, and how the front teeth wear.
When a Bad Bite Is Worth Looking At Sooner
A mild bite difference may never cause trouble. Other signs mean it is worth having your bite checked before it leads to wear or discomfort. Reach out to your nearest Inspire Dental location if you notice any of the following:
- Trouble chewing or biting, or food that often gets caught in the same spots
- Jaw soreness, clicking, or frequent headaches around the jaw joint
- Teeth that are wearing flat, chipping, or feeling more sensitive
- Biting your cheek or tongue often because the teeth do not meet evenly
- A child whose top and bottom teeth clearly do not line up as they grow
A bite that is off can slowly wear teeth and strain the jaw. Correcting it earlier often makes treatment simpler and protects the teeth long term.
How We Correct a Misaligned Bite
Treatment starts with a careful look at how your teeth and jaws meet. Once we understand the type of bite problem, we match the approach to it, always aiming for the most comfortable path to a balanced bite.
Braces and Orthodontic Care
For most bite problems, gentle orthodontic treatment guides the teeth and jaws into better alignment over time. We tailor the plan to your bite, your age, and your goals.
Learn about our orthodontic care →Invisalign Clear Aligners
For many overbites, crossbites, and open bites, clear aligners can move teeth into place discreetly. They are removable, easy to clean, and comfortable to wear.
Learn about Invisalign →The right choice depends on the type and severity of your bite, and we walk you through the options before anything begins. For trusted background reading, the ADA explains how braces correct a bad bite, and the Cleveland Clinic has a clear overview of overbite and how it is treated.
2,700+
5-star Google reviews from local families
3
Convenient offices across the East Dallas area
Aligned
Bites corrected with braces and clear aligners
Since 2017
Trusted care for kids, teens, and adults
Bring Your Bite Into Balance
Book online or call the location closest to you. We accept Medicaid, CHIP, and most PPO plans, with flexible payment plans to fit your budget.
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Orthodontic Care You Can Trust
Inspire Dental & Orthodontics was founded in 2017 by Dr. Patel and Dr. Paul, two dentists who grew up in this community. Every bite is evaluated by a licensed dentist, and we build a plan you understand before treatment starts. Our bilingual team has earned more than 2,700 five-star reviews from families at our offices in Mesquite, Garland, and Balch Springs.
Bites Brought Back Into Balance
Real reviews from patients who came in with bite trouble and left with a clear plan to set things right.
My deep overbite had bothered me for years. They explained exactly what was happening and started me on aligners. A few months in, my teeth already meet so much better and chewing feels normal again. Very patient with all my questions.
We brought our son in because his bite looked off and he was biting his cheek a lot. They caught a crossbite early and laid out a simple plan. The whole team made him feel comfortable, and the progress has been great.
Tenía una mordida cruzada y me costaba masticar. El doctor me explicó las opciones con calma y empezamos el tratamiento con frenos. Poco a poco mi mordida se ha ido corrigiendo. Un equipo muy amable y profesional.