After I finished with braces, I saw my dentist three months later for a cleaning and exam. My dentist said that the x-rays show my bite is still off, and I need complete mouth restoration. He recommends crowns on all my teeth since the braces did not correct my bite. Although I have many composite fillings, I did not think my bite was so bad that I needed more dental care. How could I need crowns when I finished braces in February? I have stayed away from my dentist, but this issue with my bite lingers. I am concerned that if there is an issue and I ignore it, things could worsen. How do I know whether to see an orthodontist or return to my dentist? – Thank you. Ricardo M.
Ricardo,
Thank you for your inquiry. Although almost everyone’s bite is off to some degree, whether your bite needs correcting depends on your signs and symptoms. You have not mentioned any problems with tooth function or symptoms of severe bite issues. So, we wonder why your dentist recommends full-mouth reconstruction.
If you are experiencing TMJ symptoms, your bite might be responsible. TMJ can cause these symptoms:
- Earaches
- Tinnitus
- Eye pain
- Debilitating headaches
- Premature teeth wearing
Temporomandibular joint
Sometimes, full-mouth reconstruction is necessary. But the treatment is complex and requires advanced training in occlusion and bite. But even highly trained dentists will try splint therapy or a new bite alignment before they recommend grinding down all your teeth for crowns.
We recommend scheduling a consultation with an advanced cosmetic dentist with post-graduate TMJ training. Take copies of your dental x-rays and records with you. Eventually, you will need an examination to determine if your bite might cause problems in the future or any problem at all.
At this point, don’t allow your dentist to prepare a treatment plan before you get a second opinion.
Barrington, Illinois dentist Dr. James Gavrilos sponsors this post.