Misaligned Bite After Dental Implants: Causes and Solutions

Q: Misaligned Bite After Dental Implants: Causes and Solutions

Hello： If there is a significant discrepancy between the treatment results and your expectations, it is recommended that you first consult with your local dental association for coordination. <br>The association typically assists in arranging subsequent matters.

Misalignment after dental implant placement?

Hello Doctor, I have had dental implants done on the upper and lower teeth on the left side (counting from the molars forward), with four implants each.
After the procedure, when I look at my bite from the front to the back (starting from the canine), I notice that the upper teeth are protruding outward by about one-third, while the lower teeth are positioned inward by about one-third.
It resembles two boxes overlapping, with the upper one leaning outward and the lower one leaning inward, creating a misalignment.
I have consulted my original dentist about this issue, and he emphasized that the implants were not placed incorrectly.
He also adjusted the prosthetics slightly for the bite.
My question is whether this situation indicates a problem with the dental implants (the implant root portion) or if there is an issue with the fabrication of the prosthetics.
If I want to seek an evaluation from a third-party verification unit, where should I go? So far, I have only inquired at the health center, but they focus on medical disputes that proceed legally.
Thank you for your assistance.

Xiao Lin, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/04/22

Dr. Lin Jiayong reply Dentistry

Hello: If there is a significant discrepancy between the treatment results and your expectations, it is recommended that you first consult with your local dental association for coordination.
The association typically assists in arranging subsequent matters.

Reply Date: 2020/04/22

More Info

Misaligned bite after dental implants can be a frustrating issue for patients, and it often raises questions about the underlying causes and potential solutions. In your case, it seems that after receiving implants on both the upper and lower molars, you are experiencing a misalignment where the upper teeth are positioned outward and the lower teeth are positioned inward. This situation can resemble two boxes stacked on top of each other but misaligned, which can lead to discomfort and functional issues when biting or chewing.

Causes of Misaligned Bite After Dental Implants
1. Implant Placement: The initial placement of the dental implants is crucial. If the implants are not positioned correctly in relation to the surrounding teeth, it can lead to an improper bite. However, you mentioned that your dentist assured you that the implants were not installed incorrectly, which suggests that the placement may not be the primary issue.

2. Prosthetic Design: The design and fabrication of the prosthetic teeth (the crowns or dentures placed on the implants) play a significant role in achieving a proper bite. If the prosthetics are not designed to fit well with the existing dental arch, it can result in misalignment. This could be due to a manufacturing error or a miscommunication regarding the desired occlusion between the upper and lower teeth.

3. Occlusal Adjustment: After the prosthetics are placed, dentists often perform occlusal adjustments to ensure that the bite is even and comfortable. If this adjustment is not done adequately, it can lead to misalignment. You mentioned that your dentist made some adjustments, but if the problem persists, further adjustments may be necessary.

4. Changes in Jaw Position: Sometimes, the jaw can shift after dental work due to muscle tension, changes in bite dynamics, or other factors. This can lead to a misaligned bite even if the implants and prosthetics were initially placed correctly.

5. Bone Integration Issues: If the dental implants do not integrate properly with the jawbone, it can lead to movement or shifting of the implants, which may affect the alignment of the bite.

Solutions for Misaligned Bite
1. Consultation with a Specialist: If you are not satisfied with the adjustments made by your original dentist, it may be beneficial to seek a second opinion from a prosthodontist or an oral surgeon who specializes in dental implants. They can assess the situation more thoroughly and provide insights into whether the issue lies with the implants or the prosthetic design.

2. Further Occlusal Adjustments: If the misalignment is due to the prosthetics, further occlusal adjustments may be necessary. This can involve reshaping the crowns or adjusting the bite to ensure that the upper and lower teeth meet correctly.

3. Re-evaluation of Implants: If there is a concern that the implants themselves are not positioned correctly, imaging studies such as X-rays or a 3D cone beam CT scan may be warranted to evaluate the placement of the implants.

4. Physical Therapy: In some cases, muscle tension or jaw issues can contribute to misalignment. Physical therapy or exercises to relax the jaw muscles may help alleviate some of the discomfort and improve alignment.

5. Legal and Professional Recourse: If you believe that there has been negligence or a significant error in your treatment, you may consider consulting with a legal professional who specializes in medical malpractice or dental disputes. They can guide you on how to proceed with your concerns and whether a third-party evaluation is warranted.

Conclusion
Misalignment after dental implants can arise from various factors, including implant placement, prosthetic design, and occlusal adjustments. It is essential to communicate openly with your dental care provider about your concerns and seek further evaluation if necessary. A multidisciplinary approach involving specialists may provide the best outcome for correcting the misalignment and ensuring your dental health and comfort.

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