15 Feb What Is Occlusal Function, and Why Is It Important?
Occlusal function may sound strange, but this phrase refers simply to how your teeth line up to form your bite. Problems with your bite or teeth alignment are called malocclusions of the teeth.
Your teeth can become misaligned at any stage in life due to the following factors:
- Genetics: Many people inherit an unhealthy or irregular bite from their parents.
- Behavior: Bottle-feeding, thumb sucking, injuries, and poor dental hygiene or dental care, can all cause problems with your bite.
- Health Problems: Cleft lips, cleft palates, tooth abnormalities, or tumors in the mouth can also create alignment problems.
Negative Health Impact of Malocclusions
When your bite does not line up correctly, it can cause many other health problems. A poor bite may prevent you from chewing correctly or put you at a greater risk for chewing on or inuring your teeth or tongue. Malocclusions can also add painful strain and impact to the bones and muscles in the face and neck.
Patients with crooked, crowded, or misaligned teeth have a tougher time keeping all of their teeth clean and plaque free. This increases the risk for tooth decay and gum disease to develop. Finally, patients with poorly aligned teeth may suffer psychologically through decreased self esteem and lower confidence about their smile.
How The Dentist Can Correct Your Bite
Check with your dentist about the health of your bite and what your options are for improving your smile’s functionality. Clear orthodontics are low profile aligners, which can correct the position of your teeth over time. Sometimes a dentist will use cosmetic procedures like reshaping or bonding to correct your bite.
If you think your bite may be misaligned, then contact Tucson dentist Dr. John Carson DDS in Tucson. Dr. Carson can examine your bite and provide cosmetic dental solutions to improve the health and beauty of your smile. Call (520) 514-7203 today.