Addressing High Bite and Open Bite Issues: Which Specialist to Consult?

Q: Addressing High Bite and Open Bite Issues: Which Specialist to Consult?

Hello： It is recommended to consult the orthodontic department at a medical center to inquire about possible solutions for addressing the anterior open bite issue.

Anterior open bite, with a sensation of high occlusion on the right molars?

Doctor, about five or six years ago, I had a filling on my upper right second molar that fell out.
I went to the dentist to have it refilled, but I always felt it was too high afterward.
I returned to the clinic for adjustments, but the dentist said he had already made sure that the tooth did not touch the lower teeth, yet I still felt it was high.
Eventually, the dentist even ground down some of my upper first molar, but I still felt it was high.
The dentist suggested it might be a psychological issue, but after all this time, I still feel that my bite is higher.
Over time, my upper and lower front teeth have also developed an open bite (I’m not sure if this is related to the feeling of height on the right side).
Initially, my upper front teeth slightly covered my lower front teeth, but in recent years, I have seen several dentists, and these issues remain unresolved.
I have also asked the dentists if I should consult a more specialized dentist, but I did not receive a clear answer.
One older dentist thought my open bite might be related to a jaw joint issue, but he was uncertain.
So, I would like to ask you, if I want to address these two issues, which type of specialist should I consult: an oral and maxillofacial surgeon or an orthodontist? Thank you.

wei, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2024/04/01

Dr. Lin Jiayong reply Dentistry

Hello: It is recommended to consult the orthodontic department at a medical center to inquire about possible solutions for addressing the anterior open bite issue.

Reply Date: 2024/04/01

More Info

To address your concerns regarding the high bite and open bite issues, it is essential to consult with the right dental specialists who can provide a comprehensive evaluation and treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. Given the complexity of your situation, I recommend considering the following specialists:
1. Orthodontist: An orthodontist specializes in diagnosing and correcting misaligned teeth and jaws. They can assess your bite and determine if your open bite is due to dental alignment issues. Orthodontic treatment may involve braces or other appliances to gradually shift your teeth into the correct position, which can help alleviate the sensation of a high bite and improve your overall occlusion.

2. Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon: If your bite issues are related to the jaw structure or if there are underlying skeletal discrepancies, an oral and maxillofacial surgeon may be necessary. They can perform surgical interventions if needed, especially if your open bite is due to jaw alignment problems. This specialist can also address any concerns related to the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), which may be contributing to your symptoms.

3. General Dentist with a Focus on Occlusion: A general dentist who has experience in occlusion and bite issues can also be a valuable resource. They can evaluate your dental restorations and ensure that they are properly adjusted to fit your bite. If your previous dental work has contributed to your high bite sensation, a skilled general dentist can make the necessary adjustments.

4. TMJ Specialist: If you suspect that your symptoms may be related to TMJ disorders, consulting a specialist in this area can be beneficial. They can provide a thorough evaluation of your jaw function and recommend treatments that may include physical therapy, splints, or other modalities to relieve discomfort and improve jaw function.

Additional Considerations
- Psychological Factors: It’s worth noting that psychological factors can sometimes play a role in how we perceive our bite and dental issues. If you feel that your concerns may be influenced by anxiety or stress, discussing these feelings with a mental health professional may also be helpful.

- Comprehensive Evaluation: Before proceeding with any treatment, it is crucial to undergo a comprehensive evaluation that may include dental X-rays, bite analysis, and possibly 3D imaging. This will help the specialist understand the underlying causes of your bite issues.

- Collaboration Between Specialists: In some cases, a collaborative approach involving both an orthodontist and an oral surgeon may be necessary to achieve the best results. They can work together to create a treatment plan that addresses both the functional and aesthetic aspects of your bite.

Conclusion
In summary, to effectively address your high bite and open bite issues, I recommend consulting with an orthodontist first, as they can provide insight into dental alignment and occlusion. If necessary, they can refer you to an oral and maxillofacial surgeon for further evaluation. Additionally, a general dentist with experience in occlusion can help assess and adjust any dental restorations that may be contributing to your concerns. By seeking the right specialists, you can work towards a solution that improves your bite and overall dental health.

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