Occlusal Adjustment (Bite Adjustment)
An Occlusal Adjustment, also known as a Bite Adjustment, is a dental procedure that reshapes the chewing or incising surfaces of your teeth so they come together properly. When your bite is misaligned due to injury, dental work, teeth grinding, or natural wear over time, it can create interferences that prevent your jaw from settling into its ideal position.
A bite that feels “off” is not a small issue—misalignment can place unnecessary strain on the jaw muscles, TMJ (temporomandibular joint), neck muscles, and surrounding tissues. This often leads to discomfort, headaches, uneven tooth wear, difficulty chewing, and long-term jaw problems.
At CareDental, our team carefully evaluates your bite to determine the exact points of interference. Using diagnostic tools such as mylar bite paper, jaw movement assessment, and TMJ evaluation, we identify the areas that need slight reshaping. By making precise adjustments, we help your jaw return to a comfortable, natural position, improving function and reducing muscle tension.
A professionally performed Occlusal Adjustment can enhance comfort, protect your teeth, and support long-term oral health.
Benefits of Occlusal (Bite) Adjustment
- Relieves TMJ pain and jaw tension
- Reduces headaches and muscle strain
- Improves chewing and biting comfort
- Prevents uneven tooth wear
- Reduces tooth sensitivity
- Helps correct bite alignment
- Protects dental restorations (crowns, fillings, bridges)
FAQs
1. What is an Occlusal Adjustment?
It is a procedure where your dentist gently reshapes the biting surfaces of your teeth to improve how your upper and lower teeth come together.
2. How do I know if I need a Bite Adjustment?
Common signs include jaw pain, headaches, difficulty chewing, chipped teeth, grinding, or a feeling that your bite doesn’t align properly.
3. Is the procedure painful?
No. Occlusal Adjustment is quick and painless. It involves minimal reshaping of the tooth surface and does not require anesthesia in most cases.
4. How long does the procedure take?
Most bite adjustment procedures take 10–20 minutes, depending on the complexity of the misalignment.
5. Will it fix my TMJ pain?
If your TMJ pain is caused by bite imbalance, an occlusal adjustment can significantly reduce or eliminate symptoms.
6. Is Occlusal Adjustment covered by insurance?
Coverage varies. Many insurance plans cover bite adjustment if it is medically necessary. Our team can help you verify your benefits.