What Is an Open Bite?

An open bite is when the top and bottom teeth don’t match up at either the front or back of the mouth when the jaw is closed. This creates a space between the teeth known as a “malocclusion.” There are many underlying issues that can cause a bad bite, with other secondary effects of a poor alignment being pain, problems with hygiene, and gum decay.

While often complex to treat, a licensed orthodontist nearby will be able to correct this uncomfortable condition with a variety of treatment options typically available. If you’re suffering with an open bite, Frugé Orthodontics is here to help.

What Causes an Open Bite?

Generally, causes for an open bite are broken down into dental or skeletal issues, though sometimes the condition is caused by both. Here are the top three causes of an open bite:

Genetics

Poor bone growth is typically caused by genetics. These genes are passed down through the family, causing skeletal issues leading to malocclusions.

Bad Oral Habits

Dental causes of malocclusions stem from habits that interrupt important dental development, typically during earlier ages. These include:

  • lip sucking
  • thumb sucking
  • tongue thrusting

Soft Tissue Issues

Patients with open bites can have issues with their soft tissues that make the issue worse. These include:

  • poor swallowing patterns
  • bad tongue posture
  • inflammation of joints
  • poor tongue posture

No matter the cause, correcting an open bite is possible with the help of a trained, local orthodontic specialist like those at Frugé Orthodontics.

What are the signs of an open bite?

The most notable sign of an open bite is the inability to close the teeth at the front of the mouth, even if the jaw is completely closed. Additional signs of an open bite are:

  • problems with chewing or swallowing
  • recessed chin
  • speech problems
  • painful eating
  • inability to rip food easily with front teeth

Treating an Open Bite

There are many ways for an experienced orthodontist to treat an open bite. Some involve more invasive procedures than others. You must understand the risks vs. benefits of any treatment plan before moving forward; a reputable orthodontist won’t pressure you in any way. Treatment modalities for malocclusions include:

Traditional Braces

An effective and standard treatment for an open bite, braces move teeth around with a variety of bands and spacers. These are most effective during early development before the bones are fully fused, but they can significantly correct adult bites as well.

Invisalign®

Invisalign can treat some types of open bites by moving teeth around, just like braces. They have the additional benefit of being able to be removed while also appearing less obvious than traditional braces.

Oral Surgery

Sometimes, oral surgery for an open bite is the only way to correct it. It is only used for very complex cases that would otherwise not be treated successfully with braces. A careful, long-term plan is established between patients and providers to ensure the best results with minimal risks.

Retainers

Retainers for open bites are preventative measures that seek to stop malocclusions from forming once teeth have been straightened. It’s important to follow the instructions of a licensed, experienced orthodontist so that retainers don’t go to waste.

Other Common Treatments

While it might seem straightforward, there are several different types of open bites that range in severity. If you’re concerned about a potential malocclusion, then it’s best to contact an experienced orthodontist nearby for a proper diagnosis. You’ll most likely undergo an x-ray exam or some other three-dimensional imaging process to determine your specific problems. Once a proper diagnosis is made, treatment plans can begin.

Underbite
Overbite
Openbite
Crowding
Crossbite
Tooth Spacing
Missing Teeth

Why Choose Frugé Orthodontics?

30+ years

of providing care

4 locations

in Louisiana

The trained orthodontic specialists at Frugé Orthodontics will help you correct your malocclusion for a more aesthetic and functional bite. Your open bite will not correct itself and will potentially become worse over time if left alone. Contact our open bite treatment clinic nearby for a consultation and start the process of straightening your smile today!

Our Patients Love Us!

Dr Andre is the absolute best!
Ryan Domangue Sep 26, 2025
Dr. Andre and the team were absolutely top-notch! They made the whole process easy and comfortable, and my daughter loves her beautiful new smile. Highly recommend!
Macey Allement Sep 25, 2025
best place ever
baymond Sep 24, 2025
I was referred here by my Dentist and im soo glad I listened! I'm in the middle of BOTH office so I go to whichever has an opening. Everyone is so kind and sweet ( BOTH OFFICES) the atmosphere's peaceful, the staff's very caring and takes pride in their work! I love it here
Yonnie T Sep 20, 2025
Both of my children got braces here and had wonderful experiences. I can not say enough about their staff.
Thomas Bourque Sep 15, 2025
My wife and I can’t speak highly enough of Dr. Andre and the staff. We both have had our braces done by Dr. Andre and his care was nothing short of exemplary. My wife needed her retainer fixed many years after treatment and Dr. Andre fixed it with no problem and remembered her as if she was still an active patient. Additionally, the staff was always kind, friendly and welcoming.

I began experiencing some TMJ symptoms recently. The doctor I...
Sean Fiegel Sep 9, 2025
Dr. Jim did an AMAZING job on my teeth, they look beautiful. The staff is friendly and the service is stellar. I got my braces off today and my teeth are so straight and perfectly aligned. I had braces 10 years ago from different provider and my teeth were nowhere nearly this beautiful. I would recommend Fruge Orthodontics to everyone!
Deanna Baker Sep 8, 2025
I went in for braces and they explained the process to me really well. They even have an emergency line for after hours and were very helpful throughout my plan. I have had braces for 19 months and was very satisfied with the results. I hope I don't have to visit, but if I do I know it will be a great experience!
Hari J. Sep 8, 2025
Everyone is very nice and answer all my questions and concerns.
Catina M Sep 7, 2025
Consultation process was easy and informative. Dr. James and everyone were great throughout the entire process of my braces and my teeth look great! 12/10!!!!!
Elijah Tolliver Sep 6, 2025
Great Services!!! I love it. This was my First time and Dr. Brad and Staff made sure I was very comfortable. I was so nervous!!
latrice richard Sep 4, 2025
Dr. Andre was really nice and all of the staff were friendly and helpful
Frances Weiter Aug 27, 2025
Andre is the best out there! Stop by to see him if you need braces.
MsApeachS Aug 27, 2025
Love the staff!
Amber Sumerall Aug 26, 2025
Dr. Jim was great!!! Experience was great from start to finish!!! Everyone was so nice and professional. Highly recommend Frugé Orthodontics!!! Max loves his smile!!
Max Hampton Aug 25, 2025
Made me feel comfortable and understand my treatment plan. Definitely friendly and helpful
Layla Wilson Aug 23, 2025

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We’ll answer all of your questions, provide a personalized treatment plan, and work with your insurance and finances to find a solution that works for you. Ready to schedule your complimentary consultation with our orthodontists? Request a callback and we’ll reach out at a time that works best for you.

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