Occlusal Therapy (Bite Adjustment)

A person’s unique bite cannot cause periodontal disease; however, it can make periodontal disease worse. In this regard the doctors may suggest isolated or comprehensive bite therapy.

A bite is considered to be healthy when all or most of the teeth are present and not damaged by normal daily usage. It is destructive when teeth show wear, looseness or when TMJ (jaw joint) damage is seen. Bite therapy helps restore a bite that can function without damage and destruction. The therapy may include:

• Reshaping the biting surfaces of the teeth to help eliminate spots of excessive pressure where the teeth are brought into contact. This is done by carefully distributing bite pressures evenly across all of the teeth.
• Bite splint therapy with a custom-fitted and adjusted bite guard is used to keep the teeth apart and promote more relaxed joints and muscles.
• Orthodontic consultation and therapy (braces) to reposition mal-aligned or drifted teeth.
• Replacement of old, worn out, or damaged fillings.
• Reconstruction of badly worn and damaged teeth.