Bite Correction: Complete Guide to Malocclusion Treatment
Bite correction treats malocclusion—when the upper and lower teeth do not align properly. Beyond aesthetics, an incorrect bite causes difficulty chewing and speaking, accelerated tooth wear, TMJ disorders, chronic headaches, and digestive problems. Modern orthodontic treatment addresses these functional problems while improving appearance.
Lucio Antonio TOMA
Orthodontist – 15+ Years of Experience
Specialist orthodontist with 15+ years of experience. Expert in bite correction, malocclusion treatment, and complex orthodontic cases.
Types of Bite Problems (Malocclusion)
Class I (70%)
Normal jaw relationship with crowding, spacing, or rotated teeth. Most treatable with standard orthodontics.
Class II (Overbite)
Upper teeth protrude forward, lower jaw positioned too far back. Can be Division 1 (teeth stick out) or Division 2 (teeth tilt inward).
Class III (Underbite)
Lower jaw protrudes forward. Often requires surgical correction in adults for severe cases.
Vertical Bite Problems
Overbite
Upper teeth cover lower teeth excessively. Can damage the palate and increases risk of periodontal disease.
Open Bite
Front teeth don't touch when biting. Caused by thumb sucking or genetics. Affects speech and eating.
Crossbite
Upper teeth sit inside lower teeth. Requires early treatment to avoid asymmetric jaw growth.
Diagnosis: How We Evaluate Your Bite
Clinical Exam
Facial symmetry analysis, TMJ evaluation, bite assessment, and muscle palpation.
Imaging
Panoramic X-ray, cephalometric analysis for jaw relationship, and 3D CBCT for complex cases.
Digital Records
Digital impressions, study models, and bite registration for precise treatment planning.
Treatment Options
Braces
Metal or ceramic brackets for precise tooth movement. Ideal for complex cases requiring significant corrections.
Clear Aligners
Invisible, removable trays for mild to moderate cases. Comfortable and aesthetic option for adults.
Functional Appliances
Guide jaw growth in children and teens. Best results during active growth periods.
Orthognathic Surgery
For severe skeletal discrepancies in adults. Combined with orthodontics for optimal results.
Treatment Phases
1. Early Intervention
Ages 7-10: Address crossbites, habits, guide growth. First orthodontic evaluation recommended at age 7.
2. Comprehensive
Ages 11-14: Align teeth and correct bite with full permanent dentition. Optimal timing for most cases.
3. Adult Treatment
Any age: Correct alignment and function. May require longer treatment or surgery for skeletal issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
Duration?
Simple cases: 6-12 months. Complex cases: 18-36 months depending on severity.
Adults?
Yes, adult orthodontics is very successful. Severe skeletal problems may require combined orthodontic-surgical treatment.
Aligners?
Clear aligners work well for mild to moderate cases. Complex bite issues may require traditional braces.
Untreated?
Untreated malocclusion leads to tooth wear, TMJ problems, periodontal disease, and potential tooth loss over time.
Hours
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Areas We Serve
Your dental practice near Lausanne, Renens, Prilly, Bussigny, Epalinges and Echallens. Easy access from the West Lausanne region.