A member asked:

Should i have an orthodontic treatment just for a mild openbite (not overbite)?

15 doctors weighed in across 9 answers

Yes or No: Yes if you have a difficulty to chew and/or speech problem but no if you don't mind the appearance.

Answered 4/18/2013

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Dr. Meng Syn answered

You Choice: Correcting your open bite may add more function to your teeth and improve the quality of your life and the aesthetics of your teeth.. Also, there is not much on the down side of correcting it. Your choice.

Answered 2/8/2015

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What do you want?: If your open bite is causing accelerated wear of certain teeth, you are having problems biting things off with your front teeth or you wish to change the look of your front teeth, then by all means seek a consult. I find that most open bites are related to poor tongue function and inappropriate tongue rest posture, which will need to be corrected as well for a stable result.

Answered 8/30/2013

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Dr. Kenneth Zipkin answered

Specializes in Dentistry

Depends if you care: If you have no problems biting food , chewing, no facial or joint dysfunctiuon, and you are happy with your smile---do what you like!

Answered 10/4/2016

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Dr. Louis Sterling answered

Specializes in Prosthodontics

Depends: If you're unhappy with your appearance or function , then yes. But remember, retention for an adult with open bite is forever. It re-opens easily. You probably won't die without treatment, so if it really doesn't bother you...I'd think twice.

Answered 10/4/2016

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Possibly: It all depends on the etiology (cause) of the open bite. If it is due to a tongue thrust or digit sucking habit, it is important to correct the habit prior to commencing with orthodontic treatment to correct the open bite. If the open bite is mild, and there is no issue with function (eating), it is up to you. The younger a person is, the easier it is to correct the open bite.

Answered 12/28/2014

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Maybe: If only your back teeth touch when closing then they will be receiving too much of the load during chewing and clenching. Eventually, those teeth may crack or wear down. It is best to have all the teeth touch. If only the incisors are apart, then it may only be an esthetic issue. Although it becomes difficult to eat a sandwich without the meat staying on the sandwich when taking a bite.

Answered 12/10/2016

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If you wish: Orthodontics is elective, and if the bite bothers you, by all means change it. By distributing the force of the bite amongst all the teeth less wear and tear affects those teeth that are in occlusion. Orthodontics can be wonderfully beneficial, but is not a necessity.

Answered 12/9/2013

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Long term: Front teeth are supposed to overlap about 25% to cause back teeth to come apart during function. This protects back teeth from excessive wear and protects the jaw joint. Additionally properly positioned teeth look better. See a qualified orthodontic specialist for examination, evaluation, and treatment choices. With this knowledge you can make an informed decision.

Answered 1/18/2014

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