How many times can my dentist try to fix my bite before the crowns crack? I got six zirconia crowns in August, and my bite is still off. My dentist sent two crowns back, shaved the others, and still can’t get it right. Why is my bite still off? The situation is so stressful that I have begun chewing my tongue, which I have never done in my life. I cannot imagine needing new crowns. I don’t think I can take it emotionally. What is my dentist doing wrong? Thanks. Brad from Arlington, TX
Brad,
Thank you for contacting Dr. Brooksher’s office. We understand your frustration about your new dental crowns and an uncomfortable bite. Dr. Brooksher would need to examine your crowns to determine why your bite is off, but we will address your concerns.
Why Can’t Your Dentist Adjust Your Bite?
If a dentist cannot adjust your bite with new crowns, it could be due to a lack of training in occlusion and bite. A dentist must get post-graduate training to understand how to achieve harmony with your bite. Otherwise, the disruption can cause symptoms associated with TMJ disorder, including jaw pain or stiffness, neck pain, earaches, and headaches.
We recommend getting a second opinion because we are concerned that your dentist does not know how to correct your bite. Look for a dentist with advanced occlusion and bite training from a post-graduate institute, such as these:
- The L.D. Pankey Institute in Florida
- The Dawson Academy in Florida
- Spear Education in Arizona
You can do a Google search for dentists in your city with occlusal and bite training or use the name of one of the institutes listed above when you search. It is not surprising that your situation is causing you to develop the habit of chewing your tongue.
Sedation for New Dental Crowns
A dentist will offer sedation based on your level of anxiety if you need new dental crowns. Explain how the concerns with the crowns have affected you, and your new cosmetic dentist will recommend sedation options to help you relax during treatment.
Dr. Steven Brooksher, a Baton Rouge accredited cosmetic dentist and founding member of the L.D. Pankey Alumni Study Club sponsors this post.
