Open bite

What causes an open bite?

There are two main types of open bite: skeletal, which comes from the shape of the jaws, and dental, which comes from how the teeth are lined up. Causes can include:

• Thumb sucking or pacifier use that goes on for a long time
• Tongue thrusting, when the tongue pushes forward while swallowing or speaking
• Genetics or the way the jaws grow
• Baby teeth that fall out too early or too late
• Breathing through the mouth out of habit

When these things get in the way of normal jaw development, the upper and lower jaws can grow apart vertically instead of together, which leaves the open space.

How do I know if my child has an open bite?

Parents might notice:

• A visible gap between the top and bottom front teeth when the mouth is closed
• Trouble biting into foods like sandwiches or apples
• Speech changes, such as a lisp
• The tongue pushing forward or resting between the teeth
• Extra wear on the back teeth, which take on more of the work

Some open bites are easy to see in early childhood. Others develop over time or get worse as a child grows.

Why does early treatment matter for an open bite?

Open bites rarely get better on their own. Without treatment, an open bite can lead to:

• Trouble chewing certain foods
• Speech difficulties
• Tongue thrusting or mouth breathing
• Jaw pain or strain on the jaw joint
• Lower self-confidence in teens or adults

Treating an open bite early can help prevent these problems and support healthy jaw development.

How is an open bite treated?

Treatment depends on your child’s age and what’s causing the open bite. Options may include:

• Habit therapy to help stop thumb sucking or tongue thrusting
• Braces or clear aligners to guide the teeth into place
• Bite blocks or other appliances that change how the jaw grows
• Jaw surgery, for severe skeletal open bites in adults

An early orthodontic evaluation lets us treat an open bite during key growth stages, when treatment is often quicker and more effective.

When should my child see an orthodontist?

If your child’s front teeth don’t meet when they close their mouth, or they have trouble biting or speaking clearly, it may be time for a consultation.

Consultations with our orthodontic team are free, and you don’t need a referral. Learn more about how braces can help, or schedule a free consultation for your child.

Other signs a child may need braces: Crowded teeth, Deep overbite, Missing lateral incisors, Overjet, Spacing of teeth, Underbite.