Mail-Order Aligners Causing a Posterior Open Bite? Here’s What You Need to Know
Did you try mail-order aligners to straighten your teeth, only to notice that your back teeth no longer touch? Developing a posterior open bite is one of the most common complications with direct-to-consumer (DTC) orthodontic aligners. Let’s break down why this happens and how it can be fixed.
Why Straightening Teeth Can Change Your Bite
Even if your teeth are crooked, most patients start with a stable bite. Moving teeth—whether to close gaps or align overlaps—changes the arch lengths, which can affect how your upper and lower teeth come together.
- Closing gaps in the upper teeth can shorten your arch length and shift the top teeth backward, causing your back teeth to stop touching.
- Straightening crowded lower teeth can push the front teeth forward, resulting in premature contact in the front and preventing proper back tooth contact.
Both of these outcomes are common when teeth are aligned without a comprehensive plan for the bite.
How Orthodontists Prevent Posterior Open Bites
Orthodontists plan treatment carefully to maintain a healthy bite while straightening teeth. To prevent posterior open bites, we may:
- Open the bite by slightly adjusting how the upper and lower teeth overlap
- Adjust the size or shape of teeth using techniques like interproximal reduction (slenderizing) or adding composite material
These procedures require in-office evaluation and precise control—things that mail-order aligners cannot provide. An orthodontist ensures your teeth are straight and that your bite functions correctly.
Can a Posterior Open Bite Be Fixed?
Yes! If your bite has been affected by mail-order aligners, it is not too late to fix it. An orthodontist can:
- Assess your bite and jaw alignment
- Correct the open bite using braces, in-office aligners, or other orthodontic techniques
- Restore proper contact between your back teeth for a healthy, functional smile
If you’re in Victorville, Hesperia, or Apple Valley and struggling with a bite problem after using direct-to-consumer aligners, schedule a consultation with Joe Orthodontics today. Our experienced team can safely straighten your teeth and restore a healthy, confident smile.
