Do you ever yourself unable to bite down properly, your jaw seeming out of line? Does chewing food seem like a chore, with how much force you have to apply? If so, you might be dealing with a misaligned bite. Depending on the severity of your case, your orthodontist may suggest a bite adjustment surgery to soothe the pain and discomfort. However, since it’s such an intrusive surgery, the healing period can take longer than expected. But how long exactly does it take for a bite adjustment to settle before you can start using your mouth like normal? To find out, keep on reading this blog.
What is a Bite Adjustment?
A bite adjustment, also known as “occlusal adjustment,” is an oral procedure that helps to modify the alignment of your teeth and jaw. For cases involving painful biting, teeth that don’t sit right, or an uneven jaw, bite adjustment can be quite helpful. This is because, during the surgery, the dentist reshapes and polishes your teeth, molding them in a way that improves your bite.
While the idea of shaping teeth into an entirely new form is terrifying, the surgery is painless. Not to mention, the point of bite adjustment is to alleviate pain and prevent you from developing serious dental problems down the line. In order to maintain good oral health, your jaw must be in proper shape. Any additional strain on the joints can offset your lower jaw, causing more than just a misaligned bite. But that is exactly why a bite adjustment surgery is necessary for repositioning the mandible.
Signs You Need a Bite Adjustment Surgery
When it comes to jaw problems, people often mistake a clicking jaw for oral malocclusion. However, that’s not always true. Not every dislocated jaw requires surgery to be fixed. Sometimes, all it takes is a small orthodontic device to slide the bone in place. It’s only in severe cases where an occlusal adjustment is needed. Mentioned below are some indications of this phenomenon.
- A sore or aching jaw.
- Difficulty chewing or eating food.
- Extremely crooked teeth.
- Overcrowded adult teeth.
- Heightened tooth sensitivity because of the pain.
- Frequent headaches or migraines.
- Jaw cramps.
How Long Does it Take For Bite Adjustment to Settle?
The best part about bite adjustment surgery is that when it comes to the pain, it instantly vanishes after the procedure. On the other hand, the time it takes for your mouth to settle could vary. This is based on the depth of the surgery and the overall health of the patient.
Initially, there may be slight discomfort, making it feel uncomfortable to eat. However, in a few days, you’ll begin to notice the difference. Within a few weeks to a couple of months, your mouth will have adjusted to the new bite, making all your day-to-day activities easier.
Closing Words
Ultimately, it can take a few weeks to months for your bite adjustment to settle completely. For more details on the matter, feel free to contact Cypress Periodontics and Dental Implants at (281) 677-022. You can also visit us at 27150 US-290 Ste 400, Cypress, TX 77433, United States.