Call us Today!
Dental crowns restore damaged teeth, but they also play a direct role in how your bite feels and functions. A bite that’s even and balanced is essential for chewing, speaking, and protecting your jaw joints. When a crown is slightly off, it can affect how your teeth meet. Over time, this misalignment can lead to discomfort or uneven wear.
Crowns are custom-made caps placed over natural teeth to restore strength and shape. While they’re often used after root canals or severe decay, they must also align precisely with your natural bite. This makes understanding how dental crowns influence your bite important for long-term oral health.
Your bite refers to how your upper and lower teeth fit together. A proper bite keeps pressure evenly distributed and prevents stress on certain teeth or jaw muscles. If a crown is too high, too low, or improperly shaped, it may alter the bite mechanics.
These signs often point to bite imbalance caused by an ill-fitting crown. That’s why crown adjustments are sometimes needed after placement. Small refinements help realign the bite and relieve any stress.
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) controls jaw movement. A crown that affects bite alignment can indirectly affect this joint. According to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, TMJ disorders are often linked to bite problems.
Improperly placed crowns may change how your jaw closes, leading to tension in the TMJ area. Over time, this tension can cause clicking, locking, or pain while chewing. Dentists in Littleton and nationwide now take bite impressions digitally to reduce the margin for error.
Today’s technology helps ensure that dental crowns influence your bite in a positive, natural way. Digital scanning, advanced 3D modeling, and bite analysis software help create crowns that mimic the shape and contour of real teeth. These tools improve how well the crown fits and feels in your mouth.
Well-made crowns should:
By using precise measurements and tooth mapping, your dentist can prevent bite interference and ensure long-lasting comfort.
After a crown is placed, the dentist will test your bite using thin colored paper to spot high points. If pressure is uneven, minor adjustments are made until the crown fits just right. This step is crucial to ensure the crown supports your bite rather than shifting it.
It’s important to return for a follow-up if your bite feels abnormal days or weeks after treatment. You can resolve most bite problems if addressed early.
Dental crowns can restore function and appearance—but only if they’re shaped to support your bite naturally. If your bite feels different or uneven after a crown, it’s time to consult our dentist. Bite alignment plays a major role in long-term comfort and dental health. You don’t want to risk it.