Monday | May 12, 2025

OCCLUSION HEALTH: WHY YOUR BITE MATTERS

JAW PAIN, WORN TEETH, OR FREQUENT HEADACHES? YOUR BITE MAY BE OUT OF BALANCE!

Eating your favourite foods should be enjoyable, not a trigger for jaw tension that lingers long after the
meal is done. At Prairie Dental, we understand a confident smile isn’t just about straight teeth; it’s
about teeth that comfortably align to support your overall oral health. When upper and lower teeth
don’t meet properly, chewing, speaking, and even your casual grin can strain your enamel, gums, and
jaw joints. Here’s why occlusion (your bite) matters and how our dedicated team can help you find
relief and restore function.

What is a Healthy Bite?

Occlusion is simply the way your top and bottom teeth come together. In an ideal bite, chewing forces
spread evenly across every tooth. Crowding, crossbite, overbite, underbite, or years of night-time grinding can overload certain teeth and the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). That imbalance
eventually shows up as tooth wear, joint pain, and headaches that seem to appear out of nowhere.

Why Correct Your Bite?

Patients who restore proper alignment often notice immediate relief and long-term protection for
both teeth and jaw. Here’s what a balanced bite can do for you:

  1. Comfort & Pain Relief
    Even pressure calms jaw muscles, easing headaches, earaches, and facial tension.
  2. Tooth Protection
    Balanced forces prevent chips, cracks, and premature wear, saving you from surprise repairs.
  3. Efficient Chewing & Digestion
    Proper alignment breaks food down thoroughly, giving digestion a head start.
  4. Clear Speech & Confidence
    Correct alignment closes small gaps that can cause a subtle lisp or whistle.
  5. TMJ Health
    Distributing pressure evenly reduces clicking, popping, and locking in the jaw joint.

COULD YOU BENEFIT FROM BITE CORRECTION?

Persistent jaw or neck pain, flattened or sensitive teeth, difficulty chewing tougher foods, or a tell-tale
click each time you open wide, all points to an imbalanced bite. A comprehensive exam and digital bite
analysis with Dr. Patel will reveal whether clear aligners, minor enamel reshaping, a custom
nightguard, or restorative work can restore harmony.

MAINTAINING YOUR NEWLY BALANCED BITE.

Once we’ve corrected your bite, simple habits help maintain your results: brush twice daily, floss
once, and continue regular professional cleanings. Wear your nightguard or retainer exactly as
prescribed. Consistency helps ensure lasting comfort and alignment. Routine check-ups allow us to
catch small shifts before they become significant, and adopting stress-management techniques like
stretching, yoga, or brisk walks can also reduce tension-related clenching.

READY TO BITE INTO BETTER ORAL HEALTH?

An unbalanced bite shouldn’t dictate what’s on your plate—or how wide you smile. Book an occlusion
assessment with Prairie Dental and discover treatment options tailored to you.

Call Prairie Dental at (780) 986-6255 or visit www.prairiedental.ca to schedule your appointment.
today!