In dentistry, OD most commonly refers to Occlusal Disease, a destructive process affecting misaligned teeth.
Understanding Occlusal Disease (OD)
Occlusal disease isn't a disease in the traditional sense like an infection. Instead, it describes the damaging effects of an improper bite (malocclusion) on your teeth and surrounding structures. Many people are unaware they suffer from it.
What Causes Occlusal Disease?
Occlusal disease arises from several factors, all leading to uneven pressure on the teeth:
- Misaligned Teeth: Crooked or crowded teeth prevent proper bite alignment.
- Missing Teeth: Missing teeth can cause remaining teeth to shift, altering the bite.
- Grinding or Clenching (Bruxism): This puts excessive force on teeth.
- Poor Dental Work: Ill-fitting crowns or fillings can disrupt the bite.
Effects of Occlusal Disease:
The uneven pressure from a bad bite can lead to a variety of problems:
- Tooth Wear: Excessive grinding wears down the enamel, exposing the dentin.
- Tooth Sensitivity: Worn enamel leads to sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods.
- Tooth Fractures: Uneven pressure can cause teeth to crack or break.
- Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Disorders: Misalignment can strain the jaw joint.
- Headaches and Muscle Pain: Muscle tension from clenching can cause headaches.
- Tooth Loss: In severe cases, occlusal disease can contribute to tooth loss.
Diagnosing and Treating Occlusal Disease:
Dentists diagnose occlusal disease through a thorough examination, including assessing your bite, checking for tooth wear, and evaluating jaw joint function. Treatment options depend on the severity and cause:
- Night Guards: Protect teeth from grinding during sleep.
- Orthodontics (Braces or Invisalign): Correct misaligned teeth.
- Restorative Dentistry (Crowns, Onlays): Restore damaged teeth and improve bite.
- Equilibration (Bite Adjustment): Reshape teeth to distribute pressure evenly.
Occlusal disease is a significant contributor to tooth loss, underscoring the importance of identifying and managing bite problems for overall oral health.
