When your teeth are out of alignment or subject to prolonged pressure, it can lead to more than just jaw discomfort. It may signal occlusal disease, a condition that gradually erodes your bite and overall dental health.Often overlooked, occlusal disease is a leading cause of premature tooth wear, cracked enamel, and even chronic headaches.
At Premier Arts Dental in Freehold Township, NJ, Dr. Prachi Shah takes a comprehensive, detail-oriented approach to diagnosing and treating bite problems, helping patients preserve their smiles while restoring comfort and confidence.
What Is Occlusal Disease?
Occlusal disease is a complex condition that arises when the bite (the way your upper and lower teeth come together) is improperly aligned. Over time, this imbalance can place excessive pressure on your teeth, leading to a cascade of functional and aesthetic issues.
While it may develop gradually, the results can be significant without early intervention. Some of the most common factors that contribute to the development of occlusal disease include:
- Misaligned teeth or jaws
- Teeth grinding (bruxism)
- Missing teeth that alter your bite
- Poorly done or worn-down restorations like crowns or fillings
If left untreated, this condition can compromise not only the health of your teeth and jaws but also your facial structure and long-term oral function.
Signs and Symptoms of Occlusal Wear
The earlier you recognize the symptoms of occlusal disease, the more options you’ll have for effective treatment. Dr. Shah and the team at Premier Arts Dental utilize advanced technology, such as iTero digital scanning and digital X-rays, to detect even subtle signs of bite problems.
This helps patients stay ahead of long-term damage, and take the necessary steps to preserve their teeth and correct their bite. When diagnosing occlusal disease, dentists typically look for the following indicators:
- Flattened, chipped, or worn-down teeth
- Sensitive teeth due to enamel loss
- Cracked or fractured restorations
- Frequent headaches or jaw pain
- Difficulty chewing or jaw locking
- Receding gumlines around key biting surfaces
These signs may appear gradually, and some patients become so accustomed to the discomfort that they don’t realize a problem exists. Significant damage may already have occurred by that time.
Customized Bite Treatment for Long-Term Relief
At our boutique-style office, Dr. Shah believes treatment should be both effective and elevated in experience. Our approach to occlusal disease prioritizes precision, comfort, and aesthetic outcomes.
Each plan is tailored by Dr. Shah based on the unique cause and progression of your bite concern. Treatment options may involve:
- Occlusal adjustments to reshape the bite for proper alignment
- Custom night guards to protect teeth from nighttime grinding, if present
- Restorative procedures like crowns or bonding to rebuild damaged surfaces
- Replacing old, worn-out crowns, fillings, or other dental work
- Orthodontic treatment for alignment and spacing corrections
By solving the underlying cause of occlusal disease, rather than just managing the symptoms, we help preserve your smile’s integrity and enhance your oral comfort for the long term.
Preventing Further Damage Through Continued Care
Once bite problems have been identified and addressed, long-term success depends on ongoing preventive care. At Premier Arts Dental, we take a proactive approach, combining routine evaluations with cutting-edge diagnostic tools to monitor changes in bite dynamics over time. Prevention strategies include:
- Regular check-ups with bite assessments
- Modifications to restorations to maintain symmetry
- Custom oral appliances for grinding or clenching habits
- Ongoing education and support for stress-related triggers of bruxism
Our team is committed to delivering not just top-tier outcomes but also an experience that puts you at ease. With 0% financing options available, we make it easier to access the quality care you deserve without financial strain.
Schedule Your Bite Evaluation in Freehold Township
If you’re experiencing worn teeth, jaw pain, or other signs of occlusal disease, don’t wait. A personalized evaluation at Premier Arts Dental in Freehold Township can identify the root causes and guide you toward the right treatment plan. Call us today at (732) 702-2787 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Prachi Shah and begin a more comfortable, confident dental journey.