Are you experiencing discomfort from an uneven bite, teeth grinding, or jaw pain? Swenson Periodontics offers expert Occlusal Modifications in Las Vegas to restore harmony to your bite and alleviate related symptoms.

Your occlusion, or bite, refers to the way your upper and lower teeth come together when you close your mouth. A proper, balanced bite is essential for comfortable chewing, clear speech, and the long-term health and stability of your teeth, gums, and jaw joints. When your bite is misaligned or uneven (a condition known as malocclusion), it can lead to a variety of uncomfortable and damaging oral health issues.

At Swenson Periodontics, Dr. Dane Swenson specializes in occlusal modifications – precise adjustments and treatments designed to correct bite discrepancies and alleviate symptoms associated with an improper bite.

Request an Appointment

What Are Occlusal Modifications?

Occlusal modification refers to a range of treatments aimed at creating a more stable, comfortable, and harmonious relationship between your upper and lower teeth and your temporomandibular joints (TMJ). Depending on your specific needs, these modifications can involve:

  • Occlusal Adjustment (Bite Equilibration): This is a precise and conservative procedure where Dr. Swenson carefully and subtly reshapes small areas of the biting surfaces of your teeth. The goal is to eliminate premature contacts or interferences that prevent your bite from closing properly, ensuring that all teeth meet evenly and simultaneously.
  • Occlusal Splint Therapy (Nightguards/Bite Guards): Custom-made oral appliances, often worn at night, are designed to protect your teeth from the damaging effects of teeth grinding (bruxism) and clenching. They also help to relax jaw muscles and stabilize the bite.
  • Orthodontic Referral: For more significant bite alignment issues, a referral to an orthodontist for braces or clear aligners may be recommended to reposition teeth into their ideal locations.
  • Restorative Dentistry: Replacing worn, fractured, or missing teeth with crowns, fillings, or dental implants can be crucial in re-establishing a proper bite.

When Are Occlusal Modifications Needed?

You might benefit from occlusal modifications if you experience any of the following symptoms or conditions related to an unbalanced bite:

  • Chronic Jaw Pain (TMJ/TMD Symptoms): Pain, tenderness, or clicking/popping sounds in your jaw joints.
  • Headaches or Facial Pain: Often tension headaches or pain radiating from the jaw and temples.
  • Excessive Tooth Wear: Teeth appearing flattened, chipped, or shortened due to grinding or clenching.
  • Tooth Fractures or Cracks: Teeth breaking under uneven biting forces.
  • Increased Tooth Sensitivity: Especially sensitivity to pressure or chewing.
  • Muscle Soreness: In the jaw, neck, or shoulders, particularly upon waking.
  • Difficulty Chewing: An inability to chew comfortably or efficiently.
  • Receding Gums or Bone Loss: An unbalanced bite can sometimes contribute to excessive forces on certain teeth, leading to gum recession or localized bone loss.
  • Loose Teeth: In some cases, an uneven bite can put undue stress on teeth, causing them to loosen.

The Importance of a Balanced Bite:

A harmonious bite is not only crucial for comfort but also for the long-term health and stability of your entire chewing system. By carefully analyzing your bite, jaw function, and muscle activity, Dr. Swenson can develop a personalized occlusal modification treatment plan to achieve a comfortable, stable, and healthy bite for our Las Vegas patients. Our goal is to alleviate your symptoms and protect your teeth and jaw joints for years to come.

If you’re experiencing any of the symptoms associated with an uneven bite, don’t hesitate to contact Swenson Periodontics in Las Vegas for a comprehensive evaluation. Let us help you find relief and restore the comfort of a balanced bite.