What Happens If You Don’t Fix Your Bite?
Dominion Orthodontics | Richmond, Glen Allen & Hanover, VA
What Is a Bad Bite?
A “bad bite,” or malocclusion, refers to how the upper and lower teeth don’t line up properly when your mouth is closed. Types of bite issues include:
Overbite – top teeth overlap the bottom too much
Underbite – bottom teeth extend past the top
Crossbite – upper teeth bite inside the lower teeth
Open bite – front teeth don’t meet at all when biting down
These issues aren’t just cosmetic—they can affect your overall health and comfort.
1. Tooth Wear, Cracking, and Damage
When teeth don’t meet evenly, they wear down faster and are more likely to:
Chip or crack
Develop weak enamel
Cause long-term sensitivity
Without correction, this can result in expensive dental procedures down the road.
2. Jaw Pain, Clicking & TMJ Disorders
An uneven bite can strain your temporomandibular joint (TMJ), which connects your jaw to your skull. This often causes:
Clicking or popping when opening your mouth
Persistent jaw pain
Tension headaches or migraines
Difficulty chewing or opening wide
Bite correction can ease that pressure and restore comfort.
3. Speech Issues
Misaligned bites sometimes make it difficult to speak clearly. Common issues include:
Lisping
Trouble pronouncing certain sounds
Slurred or unclear words
These issues are often treatable with orthodontics—especially if caught early.
4. Problems Eating & Digesting Food
A misaligned bite can make chewing difficult, leading to:
Incomplete digestion
Jaw fatigue during meals
Avoidance of certain foods
When you fix your bite, eating becomes easier and more enjoyable.
5. Higher Risk of Cavities & Gum Disease
Crowded teeth and bite issues make it harder to brush and floss thoroughly. This can increase your risk of:
Tooth decay
Plaque buildup
Gum inflammation or disease
Orthodontic treatment can improve your bite and make your smile easier to clean and maintain.
6. Shifting Teeth Over Time
When your bite is off, your teeth may gradually shift or crowd—undoing past orthodontic work or causing new problems that require more treatment later on.
Why Treating Your Bite Matters
At Dominion Orthodontics, we believe a healthy bite is just as important as a beautiful smile. Fixing your bite can relieve discomfort, prevent future damage, and set you up for lifelong dental health.
Our experienced orthodontists in Glen Allen, and Hanover offer customized solutions using braces, Invisalign®, and other advanced treatments.
Schedule a Free Consultation Today
Not sure if your bite needs treatment? Let’s take a look. Book your free consultation and get expert answers from the Dominion Orthodontics team.
