Dental Height: What Does Too High Mean in Tooth Restoration?

Q: Dental Height: What Does Too High Mean in Tooth Restoration?

Hello： This question is more about whether you might bite down on the filled tooth first. <br>If so, adjustments should be made; if not, just observe and get used to it. <br>There's no need to overanalyze the issue based on the doctor's verbal communication. <br>Sincerely, Lin Ch

Dental issues

Hello Dr.
Lin, I apologize for the interruption.
I would like to ask about the posterior teeth restoration.
When the doctor inquires whether it will be too high, does it refer to the distance being too close to the opposing teeth, or does it mean too far from the opposing teeth? I'm unclear about what "high" refers to and I'm concerned that I might answer incorrectly, leading to a treatment error.
I'm quite confused, so I would appreciate your clarification.
Thank you.

Pingguo, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/09/06

Dr. Lin Jiayong reply Dentistry

Hello: This question is more about whether you might bite down on the filled tooth first.
If so, adjustments should be made; if not, just observe and get used to it.
There's no need to overanalyze the issue based on the doctor's verbal communication.
Sincerely, Lin Chia-Yung, Department of Dentistry, Taichung Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2021/09/06

More Info

Understanding dental height, particularly in the context of tooth restoration, is crucial for ensuring proper function and comfort after dental procedures. When a dentist refers to a restoration being "too high," they are primarily concerned with the relationship between the restored tooth and the opposing teeth in the dental arch. This relationship is known as occlusion, which is the way the upper and lower teeth come together when biting or chewing.

When a dentist asks whether a restoration feels "too high," they are essentially inquiring if the newly restored tooth is positioned too close to the opposing tooth (the tooth in the opposite jaw) or if it is too far away. If the restoration is too high, it means that the restored tooth is making contact with the opposing tooth before the other teeth in the arch do, which can lead to discomfort, pain, or even damage to the restoration or the opposing tooth. This situation can create an uneven distribution of biting forces, potentially leading to issues such as tooth wear, sensitivity, or even temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders.

On the other hand, if the restoration is too low, it may not make adequate contact with the opposing tooth, which can lead to a lack of proper function during chewing and may cause the patient to unconsciously adjust their bite, leading to further complications.

The process of adjusting the height of a restoration is known as occlusal adjustment. This is typically done after the initial placement of a filling, crown, or other dental restoration. The dentist will often use articulating paper, a special type of paper that marks where the teeth make contact, to identify any high spots on the restoration. If any areas are found to be too high, the dentist will carefully grind down those areas to ensure a proper fit and function.

It's important to communicate openly with your dentist about how the restoration feels. If you experience discomfort or feel that your bite is off, it's essential to return to the dentist for an evaluation. They can make the necessary adjustments to ensure that your bite is balanced and comfortable.

In summary, when discussing the height of a dental restoration, it is primarily about ensuring that the restored tooth is at the correct level in relation to the opposing teeth. A restoration that is too high can lead to various dental issues, while one that is too low can affect chewing efficiency. Regular follow-ups and open communication with your dental care provider are key to achieving optimal results after any dental restoration.

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