Open Bite

What It Means When the Front Teeth Don’t Touch — and How Braces Can Help

An open bite is a type of malocclusion where the top and bottom front teeth don’t make contact when the mouth is closed. Instead of overlapping slightly like they should, the front teeth remain apart, leaving a visible gap even when biting down.

Open bites can affect appearance, speech, and oral function — and they typically don’t correct themselves without orthodontic treatment.

What Causes an Open Bite?

There are two main types of open bites: skeletal (jaw structure) and dental (tooth alignment). Causes may include:

Prolonged thumb sucking or pacifier use
Tongue thrusting when swallowing or speaking
Genetics or jaw growth patterns
Early or late loss of baby teeth
Mouth breathing habits

When these factors interrupt normal jaw development, the upper and lower jaws may grow apart vertically instead of together, causing the open space.

Signs of an Open Bite

Parents might notice:

A visible gap between the top and bottom front teeth when the mouth is closed
Difficulty biting into foods like sandwiches or apples
Speech issues (such as lisping)
Tongue protrusion or pushing between teeth
Excessive wear on back teeth from compensating

Some open bites are obvious in childhood, while others develop over time or worsen with growth.

Why Early Treatment Matters

Open bites rarely improve on their own. In fact, untreated open bites can lead to:

Difficulty chewing certain foods
Speech difficulties
Tongue thrusting or mouth breathing
Jaw pain or joint strain
Lower self-confidence in teens or adults

Correcting an open bite early can prevent these complications and promote healthy jaw development.

How Is an Open Bite Treated?

Depending on the patient’s age and the cause, treatment options may include:

Habit intervention therapy (for thumb sucking or tongue thrust)
Braces or clear aligners to guide tooth movement
Bite blocks or special appliances to modify jaw growth
Jaw surgery (in severe adult skeletal cases)

Early orthodontic evaluations allow us to address open bites during key growth stages, when treatment is often faster and more effective.

When to See an Orthodontist

If your child’s front teeth don’t meet when they close their mouth, or if they struggle to bite or speak clearly, it may be time for a consultation.

Ready to get expert help for your child’s bite? Schedule your free consultation today — no referral needed. Learn more about how braces can help or schedule your complimentary consultation.

Claim Your Complimentary Consultation

Our orthodontic team is here to help with complimentary orthodontic consultations in Bluffdale, Riverton, Stansbury Park, and West Jordan. Complete the form below or call (801) 254-9700 to schedule.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it normal for front teeth to not touch?

No — in a normal bite, the top front teeth slightly overlap the bottom ones. If they don’t touch at all, it’s considered an open bite.

Can thumb sucking really cause an open bite?

Yes. Prolonged thumb or pacifier use can push teeth out of alignment and interfere with jaw growth, especially in younger children.

Is an open bite treatable with Invisalign?

In some cases, yes — clear aligners can close mild to moderate open bites, particularly in teens and adults. Severe cases may require braces or other interventions.

Does an open bite affect speech?

It can. Many patients with open bites develop lisps or difficulty pronouncing certain sounds due to tongue placement.

Can an open bite fix itself over time?

It’s unlikely. Most open bites require orthodontic treatment, especially if the cause isn’t addressed early on.