Bite Correction

It’s important for your bite to function properly. A healthy bite makes it easier to eat and speak, and proper alignment puts less strain on your jaws and muscles. At Nalchajian Orthodontics, our expert doctors can correct lots of complex orthodontic problems, including “bad bites”. There are many different kinds of bite problems and treatments available, and Dr. Greg Nalchajian or Dr. Nicole Nalchajian will determine the right option for your unique needs. 

If you experience pain when eating or speaking or notice that your bite does not function as it should, contact Nalchajian Orthodontics today for an appointment. We offer bite correction treatment for patients of all ages in Fresno and Clovis, CA. 

What Causes a Bad Bite? 

Malocclusion is the condition of having a bad bite. The cause of an improper bite can vary and could exist because of several reasons. Bite problems may be the result of pressing the tongue against the back of the teeth, genetics, tooth loss, gum disease, thumb-sucking, or using a pacifier. 

There are several common types of malocclusion, which include an overbite, an underbite, and a crossbite. An overbite occurs when the upper jaw and teeth severely overlap with the lower jaw. When the lower teeth extend further than the upper jaw, this is called an underbite. Patients who have a crossbite have jaws that meet slightly to the left or the right of one another.

Why Fix an Unhealthy Bite?

Bite misalignments can vary in severity and if left untreated, they can lead to a number of health issues, including:

• Jaw pain
• Damaged enamel, tooth decay, or bad breath due to misalignment and difficulty brushing and flossing
• Gum disease
• Speech issues
• Facial pain
• TMJ pain

Thankfully, there are many options for correcting a bite misalignment, such as the Herbst appliance and the use of elastics. By correcting a bad bite, you can ensure proper oral function and keep your smile healthy.

Correcting Bite Misalignment

The first step in treating a bad bite is to schedule a consultation with us. Dr. Greg or Dr. Nicole will evaluate your oral health and determine the right treatment for your needs. We will use advanced 3D imaging technology to take scans of your facial structure, which helps us design a highly accurate treatment plan. 

Many bite problems are corrected using a Herbst appliance. The Herbst appliance is placed on the back molars using a metal connector piece between your upper and lower jaw. Once the Herbst appliance is placed, the patient is only able to close their mouth with their jaw in its new position. Because the Herbst appliance is not removable, it ensures consistent use and can even speed up the treatment process.

Elastics are removable rubber bands manually attached to your braces. You should wear your elastics 24 hours a day and only remove them when you are brushing, flossing, or replacing your elastics with new ones. Elastics should be changed at least every 12 hours to ensure proper elasticity and tension.

Bite Correction in Fresno and Clovis, CA

If you or your child has a bite problem or experiences difficulty closing their mouth and chewing foods completely, orthodontic treatment can help. Contact one of our offices in Fresno or Clovis for more information and to schedule a complimentary consultation with Dr. Greg or Dr. Nicole.