Overbites and Underbites

For some their lower jaw is forward – think Jay Leno while for others their lower jaw is intruded like they’ve hit the wall.  These conditions can cause havoc in your mouth in relation to your teeth.   However, for most their jaws are in alignment but their teeth may not be.

If the front surface of your upper teeth are more forward than the front surfaces of your lower teeth you have an overbite generally meaning your upper jaw is bigger than your lower jaw.  You may be able to sort of stick your tongue between your upper and lower teeth when your jaws are closed.  In an underbite it’s just the reverse with the lower jaw being bigger than your upper jaw.

Some others have what is called a cross bite like the x crossing of railroad tracks.  These conditions can lead to dental problems since the upper and lower teeth are not coming together correctly.  Think of the gears of a motor not being in alignment.  Over time the teeth of the gears will wear down unevenly and even break off.

You see the same thing on your shoes if your feet are not in alignment the soles of your shoes wear unevenly.  Same with a tire on your car – when out of alignment the ride is less smooth and the tires wear out quicker.

Also when teeth are crooked it is harder to keep them clean leading to gum disease and tooth decay.    Today in dentistry we are able to realign crooked teeth.  It leads to longevity of your dentition and makes it easier for you to keep them clean and decay free.

At the dental practice of Dr Glenn Reit located at 1498 Third Avenue between 84th and 85th streets in Yorkville we always like meeting new people and taking care of their dental needs whether mild or more advanced.  So, if you are looking for a dentist give us a call at 212 517 90000 today.  You and your teeth will be glad you did.

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Looking for a Dentist in the Upper East Side?

At the practice of Glenn Reit DDS; we provide quality care in a relaxed, comfortable, clean and safe environment. Please contact us today at 212 517 9000 for this or any other of your dental needs. We look forward to seeing and taking care of you!

Why Dental Implant Timelines Are Important

If you’re missing the teeth you wish you had, one solution is the placement of one or several dental implants.

Accomplished over several appointments your missing tooth will be replaced with a dental restoration that simulates and acts like your original tooth.  Over a short period of time you will have a new functioning tooth.

The first step is a consultation to see if a dental implant is right for you.  We will examine your mouth and take x-rays to see if you are a candidate for a dental implant.  Sometimes you may not have enough bone to support the implant and an additional procedure to increase your bone level will be needed.

The next step is actually placing the implant.  A piece of titanium will be placed into your jaw.  The procedure sounds difficult and painful but it is not.  Generally less than one hour will be necessary to place the implant using local anesthetics.  Over the counter pain medications are sufficient  for any discomfort you experience and you will be able to return to work the following day.

It takes some time for the implant to become attached to your jaw.  During this period there will still be a space remaining where your tooth was missing.  If this is objectionable we can create a removable temporary restoration for you to wear during this period.

The final step occurs several months later where we prepare your implant to receive a crown.

Patients are generally very happy with the end result.

Looking for Dental Implants in the Upper East Side?

Call us today at 212 517 9000 to see if this is right for you.