Dental Hygienist Questions Dentist

What could be causing bite changes?

I've noticed a change in how my teeth fit together when I bite. What could be causing this?

2 Answers

DentalHygienistDentist
Changes in your bite can happen for several reasons. Some common causes include:

Tooth loss – Missing teeth can shift others, changing how your teeth fit together.

Teeth grinding (bruxism) – This wears down teeth and can change your bite over time.

Dental work – Fillings, crowns, or bridges that aren’t properly shaped can affect your bite.

Orthodontic changes – Braces or aligners shift teeth, which may temporarily affect your bite.

Jaw problems (TMJ disorders) – Issues with the jaw joint can make your bite feel off.

Injury or trauma – Accidents that affect the jaw or teeth can change your bite.

Wisdom teeth – As they come in, they can push other teeth and affect alignment.

Tooth movement with age – Teeth can slowly shift over time, especially without a retainer.

If your bite feels different or uncomfortable, it’s best to see a dentist. They can find the cause and suggest the right fix.
A change in my bite could be caused by tooth shifting, teeth grinding (bruxism), jaw issues like TMJ disorder, dental work changes, or gum disease leading to bone loss. It’s best to get it checked early to prevent further complications.