Occlusal Analysis

Dr. Reece conducts an occlusal analysis to ensure all the parts of a patient’s bite works together. Occlusion refers to the alignment of teeth and the way the teeth meet when the lower jaw (mandible) and upper jaw (maxilla) come together.  An analysis is done to identify the corrective measures that are necessary to balance the functional dynamics of occlusion.

As part of the analysis, Dr. Reece will ask you to bite down on a piece of special paper called Articulating Paper and ask you to move your teeth. This paper will leave colored marks on your teeth where they come together. Dr. Reece will use this information to determine if treatment is needed. If your teeth do not align properly, then you have a malocclusion and Dr. Reece will recommend a bite adjustment (or occlusal adjustment).

Dr. Reece can perform a bite adjustment as an in-office procedure. A bite adjustment procedure is quick and painless. It is done to correct minor interferences that prevent your teeth from coming together properly.

There are several things that can cause a misaligned bite causing your teeth to lose their shape, to shift, or to wear down, including:

• Losing Enamel on Your Teeth
• Clenching or Grinding Your Teeth
• Aging
• Injuring a Tooth
• Failing to Take Proper Care of Your Oral Health
• Losing Teeth as a Result of Severe Periodontal Disease
• Eruption of Wisdom Teeth

You may need a bite adjustment if you are experiencing any of the following signs or symptoms:

• Chronic Headaches
• Worn or Broken Teeth (not caused by trauma)
• Pain in Your Jaw Joints, Head, or Neck Muscles
• Popping of Your Jaw
• Sensitivity in Your Teeth
• Tenderness Around the Root of a Tooth

A bite adjustment is done to correct minor interferences that prevent your teeth from coming together properly.

Occlusal Equilibration or occlusal adjustment is a dental procedure that involves selective adjusting of tooth surfaces to allow your lower teeth to contact your upper teeth evenly all the way around your mouth. This treatment is done to create a solid bite that prevents any further stress on individual teeth and reduces stress on the jaw muscles and jaw joints.

This a painless procedure and no shots are needed.

If you experiencing any symptoms of a misaligned bite, contact Advanced Dentistry of Kearney at (308) 237-1311 to schedule an occlusal analysis and bite adjustment with Dr. Reece.