Occlusion is a term that is used to refer to the alignment of your teeth. Your teeth should fit easily within your mouth without any crowding or excess spacing. None of your teeth should be turned or twisted at odd angles. The teeth of your upper jaw should slightly overlap the teeth of your lower jaw so that the pointed ridges of your molars fit into the grooves of the opposite molar.

Deviations from ideal occlusion (dental alignment) are known as malocclusion.  With a malocclusion, the teeth do not come together correctly when one bites.

If left untreated, occlusal problems can damage your teeth, the bones and gums around your teeth, and the jaw muscles you use for chewing.  Any excessive or abnormally rapid tooth wear should not be dismissed as “natural aging or wear” of the teeth.

We can provide treatment to alleviate any pain and discomfort caused by malocclusion.

Signs and Symptoms of Malocclusion and Occlusal Disease

  • Excessive wear of the tooth enamel
  • Tooth cracking and breakage
  • Receding gums
  • Tooth sensitivity
  • Loss of bone
  • Muscle pain
  • Symptoms of TMJ (jaw problems and discomfort)

We want to preserve the oral health of all our patients and treating occlusal disease can lead to optimal oral health and successful dental treatment.

Occlusal Disease

Contact our dental office and make an appointment. We are here to help.

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