I got 4 new crowns last month on bottom left and right molars. My bite is off and I told my dentist that before she cemented the crowns. I have gone back to the office twice and there is very little difference. It’s too high. What really needs to be done to adjust my bite? Thanks. Patrick
Patrick – After receiving porcelain crowns, it is important that your bite is correctly adjusted. A bite that is too high can cause tooth, jaw, and facial pain and jaw joint dysfunction (TMJ). It can even damage teeth and require root canal treatment.
Your dentist may have you bite down on adjustment paper. Crowns that are too high have more contact with opposing teeth, and tooth imprints on the paper often show where adjustment is needed. Additionally, the crowns and the opposing teeth will be examined, and an occlusal (the way teeth come in contact with opposing teeth) measurement instrument may be used. Certain areas of the biting surface of the crowns may need to be reduced, or the crowns may need to be remade.
You can consider visiting an experienced cosmetic dentist or a prosthodontist for a second opinion. These dentists frequently and effectively place dental crowns. He or she will examine your bite and crowns to determine the cause of the problem and what needs to be done to correct it.
This post is sponsored by Naperville dentist and board-certified prosthodontist Dr. Anthony LaVacca.
