A beautiful smile depends on more than just straight teeth and bright enamel. Bite alignment, or how the upper and lower teeth meet when your mouth closes, plays a key role in both the appearance and health of your smile.
At Exceptional Dentistry of the Golden Isles in Brunswick, GA, Dr. Robert Lancaster and Dr. Angela Britt bring world-class expertise to every patient. Dr. Lancaster, a Brunswick native and U.S. Army veteran, graduated second in his class from the Dental College of Georgia. Dr. Britt, known as “The Bite Doctor,” is Georgia’s only dentist with both AACD Accreditation and LVI Fellowship honors. When bite alignment is off, it can lead to visible changes, daily discomfort, and long-term oral health challenges.
What Is Bite Alignment?
A properly aligned bite allows pressure to be evenly distributed across the teeth and jaw, supporting healthy function and reducing strain on the jaw joints. When alignment is off, it can lead to issues with the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), including discomfort, clicking, or difficulty opening the mouth.
Common types of bite misalignment include:
- Overbite: Upper front teeth extend too far over lower teeth
- Underbite: Lower teeth protrude in front of the upper teeth
- Crossbite: Some upper teeth sit inside the lower teeth
- Open bite: Teeth do not fully come together when the mouth is closed
These conditions can develop due to genetics, childhood habits like thumb sucking, or jaw trauma. Addressing them early helps protect long-term dental and joint health.
How a Misaligned Bite Affects Your Smile
When the bite is off, it can influence the balance and symmetry of your smile. Misalignment may cause teeth to appear uneven or crowded and can lead to noticeable gaps as teeth shift over time. In some cases, it may contribute to mild facial asymmetry or a less harmonious smile.
Functionally, bite issues can affect speech clarity, chewing efficiency, and overall comfort. Over time, chronic strain may result in jaw soreness and tension headaches, further impacting daily life. Improving alignment not only supports oral health but can also enhance both comfort and appearance.
Restorative Dentistry Options for Bite Alignment
Many bite-related issues can be addressed through restorative dentistry. Treatment is tailored to the individual’s needs and may include:
- Invisalign or clear aligners to reposition teeth
- Dental crowns to rebuild worn or damaged teeth
- Bridges or veneers to close gaps and restore balance
- Occlusal adjustment to reshape biting surfaces
These solutions not only improve alignment but also enhance the look and function of your smile.
Creating Healthier Smiles in Brunswick, GA
If bite problems are affecting your comfort or the appearance of your smile, professional help is closer than you think.
Exceptional Dentistry of the Golden Isles offers personalized care and advanced restorative dentistry solutions to improve bite alignment and help you feel confident again. Contact us today at 912-264-5550 to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward a healthier, more balanced smile.
