Years of research show that almost 20% of the population suffers from some form of bite issues. These bite struggles can range from an underbite or crossbite to an overbite. Bite issues are more than aesthetics, they also cause discomfort in chewing, and talking, and trigger long-term dental problems that can make life a living hell. 

But modern dentistry has offered a solution to this struggle – braces. They can fix a wide range of bite problems to make your everyday life easy. But how exactly do they work? And how long does it take to notice a difference? Let’s get into it.

What Is a Bad Bite, and Why Does It Matter?

A misaligned bite, or malocclusion, occurs when the upper and lower teeth do not sit together. This can cause:

• Tooth Wear & Damage – Pressure causes teeth to wear down, chip, or break.
• Jaw Pain & Headaches – An ill-fitting bite puts extra strain on the jaw muscles, causing pain.
• Difficulty Chewing & Speaking – Some bite problems make it more difficult to chew and speak words correctly.
• Higher Risk of Cavities & Gum Disease – Teeth are more difficult to clean when they are crooked, which results in plaque accumulation.

How Braces Correct Crossbite?

Crossbite is when the upper teeth are behind the lower teeth rather than in front. It can be one tooth or multiple teeth and usually leads to uneven wear, gum recession, and jaw pain. Braces correct crossbites by:

• Applying Constant Pressure – Brackets and wires slowly move teeth into place.
• Expanding the Upper Jaw (If Necessary) – In some cases, a palatal expander is needed to widen the upper jaw before braces treatment starts.
• Rechanging the Bite Over Time – As teeth move, bite alignment improves, creating a healthier, prettier smile.

How to Correct an Underbite with Braces?

Underbite is when the lower teeth extend past the front teeth. Underbite can cause chewing problems, speech difficulties, and uneven tooth wear. Underbites are treated with braces by:

• Repositioning the Teeth – Brackets and wires gently shift teeth to a more favorable position.
• Guiding Jaw Growth – Kids may need other orthodontic appliances to guide jaw growth.
• Using Rubber Bands for Extra Correction – Elastics connect the upper and lower teeth, gradually strengthening the bite.

Other Bite Issues Braces Can Fix

Braces are designed to fit a range of alignment problems, including:

• Overbites – When the upper teeth stick out too far over the lower teeth, braces shift them back into position.
• Open Bites – When you bite together, your upper front teeth do not meet. Braces can close them up.
• Deep Bites – Deep overbites where your bottom teeth are almost not visible because of the presence of upper teeth can be corrected by braces.
• Spacing & Crowding Issues – Braces space out crowded teeth or close gaps where necessary.

How Long Will It Take To Correct A Bite With Braces?

Treatment duration differs based on the severity of the misalignment. Simple cases take a year to correct, but complications may require two years or longer. You can make your progress consistent by listening to your orthodontist and showing up for follow-up visits.

If you’re dealing with a misaligned bite, the right orthodontic care can make a world of difference. You can also look online using ‘affordable braces near me’ to keep your treatment cost minimal. Schedule a consultation with our dental team in Justin for a confident, pain-free smile!