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!

(Translated by Google) I am very satisfied with the service provided!!! I recommend them without hesitation. Thank you so much for the attention provided!

(Original)
Estoy muy satisfecha con el servicio brindado!!! Los recomiendo sin pensarlo, muchas gracias por la atención brindada!!!!!
Claudia Espinoza Jun 26, 2025
Dr. Jim did an awesome job! Staff is always friendly. Would recommend them to anyone
Stephanie Jun 26, 2025
The receptionists were super friendly. Our wait time was minimal. Dr. Brad was super friendly and positive. We loved the lady who explained how brush teeth with braces. She even gave my two smaller children a toy and T-shirt. Win-win all around!
Kerry McKnight Jun 25, 2025
The process was a breeze. The entire staff is amazing. They explained the entire process and were available for any questions. Dr. Andre made it a great experience for me and my child.
Karen Clark Jun 20, 2025
Dr. Jim is awesome! Thanks, Fruge Orthodontics, for working magic 😊
Pete and Julia Dawson Jun 17, 2025
Came in today to get started on my treatment! I headed on back as soon as I got there and they got started on my prep. Everything felt like it went by sooo quick. The staff is super friendly! I would recommend this place to anybody, they give you a little started pack of things you’re gonna need to take care of your teeth which I loved! Thanks so much Dr. Brad!
jakelin miraldo Jun 12, 2025
Such an amazing staff. I loved every experience .My smile looks amazing now I love Fruge Orthodontics.
Amelia Smith Jun 11, 2025
We love Dr. Jim and staff! They are always welcoming and always thorough! My kids have not been textbook and he has given all 3 of them a beautiful smile!
Missy Smart Jun 10, 2025
Fruge Orthodontist is amazing. Every time I go the staff is very friendly and they have made me feel good about my choice to do Invisalign. Choosing them was a great choice.
Kim Williams May 24, 2025
My 8 year old son needed top braces. The staff at Frugé has been so nice and helpful. The Doctor has been very informative and great with my son. Great experiences so far!
Patricia Lowry May 21, 2025
Dr. Andre has worked on all three of my kids. We have been going here for quite a while. He and his staff are very professional. The office is well run, and it is quite nice. We never have any issues with appointment scheduling. If needed, they do offer monthly payment plans. We are happy and have three beautiful smiles to prove it.
Scott Hoffman May 8, 2025
Who would’ve thought I would need braces at age 74! Dr. Jim took such good care of my girls I knew he would take good care of me!! The experience could not have been any easier or better!!
Connie Caldwell May 7, 2025
Really nice team! Helped me schedule my family needs.
Pablo May 6, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

All stars!! I recently had the pleasure of visiting Dr. Frugé Orthodontics, and I can confidently say it was an exceptional experience! From the moment I walked in, the staff greeted me with warm smiles, making me feel right at home.

Dr. Frugé is incredibly knowledgeable, taking the time to explain each step of the treatment process in detail. His expertise was evident, and I felt reassured knowing I was in such capable hands. The office is equipped with...
Nakia Brown May 5, 2025
My daughter and I had a wonderful experience with Dr Andre. He performed a miracle with her smile all while being super compassionate and encouraging. I couldn’t ask for a better experience. I’d recommend him to everyone. My son is next up in his office.
Gayle Tullier May 1, 2025
The best orthodontists, the best staff, the best atmosphere!
Maggie Harrell May 1, 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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