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!

Very friendly and prompt service. We did not have to wait at all during the appointment. Dr Jim was wonderful, patient, and caring. He did a great job of relieving my son's anxiety.
Teri Hall Mar 27, 2025
Dr. Jim is a competent, and a good guy. After 3 years, 7 filling and got all of my wisdom teeth taken out, my teeth are now healthy. I've attached before and after photos. Before getting orthodontic treatment, I was very insecure and anxious about my smile. Growing up, I was poor and couldn't get brace until I grew up and got a job. I'd do my best to smile without showing my teeth. Now, I'm comfortable smiling and showing...
Mason Mar 27, 2025
The Best Orthodontics in the Area
Julio Nunez Mar 27, 2025
The facility is super nice and clean. The staff was very friendly when I came in and everything was done in a timely manner. I really like Dr. Jim. I’m glad that I chose him and I’m a happy patient! 😁
lady k Mar 24, 2025
Dr. Andre did a great job with my braces and my daughters braces! I highly recommend!!! Great service and great work!
Brandon Jones Mar 21, 2025
The whole crew was amazing especially Savannah!!
Key Key Mar 21, 2025
Everything was fast and easy I brought my toddler with me cause I didn’t have a sitter they was so kind and patient with him while he was terrorizing the office 😂
Destiny Lashae Mar 15, 2025
Love Dr. Jim and the staff!! Always smiling and super friendly!!
Amanda Newman Mar 13, 2025
Quick, easy, and really nice workers. I have only ever gone to the location in Denham Springs, but I had to go to the location in Baton Rouge to get my braces removed since I had to push it back b/c I got sick. The staff were very nice and friendly. I’m unsure of the name of the orthodontic assistant who actually removed my braces but she was very nice and good at her job. I didn’t get poked or...
Connor Mar 13, 2025
Today my 8 y/o son had braces installed and he did such an amazing job, thanks to the wonderful staff members. As soon as we walked in we were greeted and asked to be seated until my son’s name was called which only took about 3 minutes. Dr. Andre made my son feel comfortable as he applied his brackets by talking to him and letting him know he was doing such a great job. Towards the end, the dental assistant...
Dari Raven Mar 11, 2025
Dr. Jim does amazing work! My daughter had a tough case but he gave her a beautiful smile. He and the staff are so nice and always so helpful with any questions or concerns. We love Fruge Orthodontics!!
Noel Armstrong Mar 10, 2025
Dr Jim is the BEST along with his assistants.
Linda Guillory Mar 4, 2025
Fantastic experience, made my smile beautiful :)
Chase Capello Feb 27, 2025
Dr Andre’ Fruge’ and his staff are top-notch. If you’re looking for an orthodontist, I highly recommend this office.
Great office, great staff!
Shayne Guy Feb 26, 2025
7 years and 2 sets of braces and my girl is finally free! Dr Brad has been AMAZING along the way and we absolutely love her results!
Cassie Starns Feb 25, 2025
Knowledgeable doctors, incredible staff, beautiful results!!!
Mindy Kramer Feb 21, 2025

Book Your Complimentary Consultation Today!

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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