Yes — one of the main goals of orthodontic treatment is to improve your bite, not just straighten your teeth. A proper bite helps ensure your teeth, jaws, and facial muscles all work together the way they should.
Here’s how braces affect your bite and why it matters for your long-term oral health.
🪠 What Is a “Bite” in Dentistry?
Your bite refers to how your upper and lower teeth come together when your mouth is closed. Common bite issues include:
- Overbite (upper teeth extend too far over lower teeth)
- Underbite (lower teeth extend past upper teeth)
- Crossbite (upper and lower teeth don’t align side-to-side)
- Open bite (front teeth don’t meet when back teeth touch)
🔧 How Braces Adjust Your Bite
Braces use gradual pressure to move both teeth and jaw alignment. Treatment may include:
- Elastics (rubber bands) to reposition the jaw
- Bite turbos or blocks to guide closure
- Adjustments to individual teeth positioning to balance contact
🩺 Why a Healthy Bite Matters
Correcting your bite can:
- Prevent tooth wear and enamel damage
- Reduce the risk of jaw pain and TMJ issues
- Improve chewing efficiency and digestion
- Support clearer speech and better facial balance
✅ What to Expect During Treatment
It may take time to feel changes — bite correction typically happens gradually throughout treatment. Your orthodontist will monitor and fine-tune your bite at each visit.
Wondering how braces can improve your bite?
Book a consultation with McLevin Dental. We’ll assess your alignment and create a personalized plan for a straighter, healthier smile.