Can Dental Grinding Cause Misalignment? Your Bite Issues

Q: Can Dental Grinding Cause Misalignment? Your Bite Issues

Hello： Generally, young individuals have at least two occlusions： one is the resting occlusion (where the facial muscles are relaxed and there is a gap between the upper and lower teeth), and the other is the maximal intercuspation (where the upper and lower teeth are tightly cle

Teeth grinding by the dentist has resulted in malocclusion?

Three months ago, I experienced pain when biting down at an angle on my upper left first molar, but it didn't hurt when I didn't bite.
After an X-ray, the dentist found no cavities and thought it was an occlusion issue, so they filed down my tooth.
However, I still felt pain when I got home.
Later, I went to another clinic to address a small cavity, and that resolved the pain, indicating that filing my tooth wasn't necessary.

After the filing, I noticed that my bite felt very strange.
I initially thought I would naturally adapt, but nearly four months have passed, and there is still a small gap between my upper and lower teeth.
It seems that my lower jaw has to shift slightly to the left for them to properly occlude.

My question is, can this be corrected? Is it possible to build up the height of the first molar? Will chewing become more difficult or lead to further issues?

Ivy, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/06/11

Dr. Lin Jiayong reply Dentistry

Hello: Generally, young individuals have at least two occlusions: one is the resting occlusion (where the facial muscles are relaxed and there is a gap between the upper and lower teeth), and the other is the maximal intercuspation (where the upper and lower teeth are tightly clenched).
If you wish to adjust these two positions to be identical, it is advisable to seek the assistance of a prosthodontist at a medical center for a long-term evaluation.
Sincerely, Dr.
Lin Chia-Yung, Department of Dentistry, Taichung Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2021/06/11

More Info

Dental grinding, also known as bruxism, can indeed lead to misalignment of your teeth and bite issues. This condition often arises from stress, anxiety, or even sleep disorders, and can result in excessive wear on the teeth, jaw pain, and changes in the alignment of your bite. When you grind your teeth, it can wear down the enamel and alter the shape of your teeth, potentially leading to a misaligned bite.

In your case, it seems that the initial pain you experienced in your upper left first molar was misdiagnosed as a bite issue, leading to unnecessary grinding of the teeth. After this grinding, you noticed a change in your bite, with gaps between your upper and lower teeth and a need to shift your jaw to achieve proper contact. This misalignment can be frustrating and may lead to further discomfort or complications if not addressed.

To answer your questions:
1. Can this be corrected? Yes, it is possible to correct bite issues caused by dental grinding or improper adjustments. A dentist or orthodontist can evaluate your bite and determine the best course of action. This may include adjustments to the height of your teeth, orthodontic treatment, or even the use of dental appliances to help realign your bite.

2. Can the first molar be built up? Yes, your dentist can add material to the first molar to increase its height and help restore proper contact with the opposing teeth. This process is often referred to as "building up" a tooth and can be done using composite resin or dental crowns, depending on the extent of the wear and the overall condition of the tooth.

3. Will chewing become easier? Once your bite is properly aligned, chewing should become easier and more comfortable. If your teeth are misaligned, it can lead to uneven pressure during chewing, which may cause discomfort or even lead to further dental issues over time. Correcting the alignment will help distribute the forces of chewing more evenly across your teeth.

In addition to these corrective measures, it is essential to address the underlying cause of your bruxism. This may involve stress management techniques, behavioral therapy, or the use of a nightguard to protect your teeth from grinding during sleep. A nightguard can help prevent further wear and tear on your teeth and may alleviate some of the discomfort associated with bruxism.

In summary, dental grinding can lead to misalignment and bite issues, but with the right dental intervention, these problems can often be corrected. It is crucial to consult with a dental professional who can assess your specific situation and recommend an appropriate treatment plan. Regular follow-ups and good oral hygiene practices will also play a significant role in maintaining your dental health and preventing future issues.

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