Miami Beach: (305) 538-2112
Key West: (305) 294-4661

Occlusal Adjustment

Occlusal, or bite, adjustment is a procedure performed to remove tiny interferences that keep teeth from coming together properly.  These interferences can prevent the jaw from closing in its anatomically correct position.  Interferences can develop as teeth develop, can occur following an accident, or they can accumulate over time with wear.  Dental work such as fillings, crowns, bridges, and extractions can also cause interferences.

Interferences can prevent the jaw from fully sliding into its anatomically correct position.  This means that the muscles of the jaw and neck are never able to fully relax.  This may result in severe headaches and neck aches.  Many develop bruxism, or teeth grinding, as their jaw seeks its natural position.  Bruxism can cause bone loss, tooth loss, and receding gums.  Overtime, patients may develop tempromandibular joint issues, or TMJ, if they go untreated.

How can I know if my bite is “off”?

During your examination, Dr. Gutt will examine your jaw closely and may notice symptoms that your bite may be off.  Some symptoms include if the jaw does not open evenly on both sides, if the jaw makes a clicking noise as it opens, if the enamel has been ground away in certain areas, or if there are fractured teeth.  Chronic symptoms of bruxism, headaches or neck aches, are also clues that the bite may be off.

How is my bite fixed?

Before the procedure begins, Dr. Gutt will have you bite on a very thin piece of mylar paper.  The mylar paper transfers color to the areas where contact occurs.  Dr. Gutt will then smooth the area where the marks have been left removing just enough of the tooth or restoration to eliminate the interference.  This process will be done on all areas where the mylar paper left color on the tooth until the jaw is able to get into its normal position.

Our patients opinions

It’s always the word of mouth that’s the best advice.

Here are some of our…

” I have been a patient of Dr. Gutt and his outstanding team for more than 15 years. I had some issues at the time of my initial visit and between the exam, cleaning, and treatment I received, I knew I chose wisely when selecting South Florida Periodontal. Dr. Gutt is extremely competent and always provides completely detailed explanations on treatment, follow-up care, and patient self-care. His entire staff has remained intact the entire time, and they are a model of consistency, dependability, and integrity, with a genuine personal touch. This was reaffirmed after a dental procedure I needed while on an extended trip out of state. With little time to search, I ended up at one of those “factory” dental offices in that city. There was simply no comparison. “

Dennis Cassa

” Thorough and clearly explained observations and report, to be forwarded to Dr. Tycoliz – Summerland Dental “

Larry Ledford

” Dr. Gutt is a very friendly and gentle doctor. He listens intently, is thorough and has amazing doctor/patient rapport. His staff is warm and friendly. From the moment i walked into the office, i felt taken care of. “

Iris Seltzer

” Dr. Gutt and his team are THE best, whether you need very sophisticated dental procedures or just a great cleaning. Our family has relied on them for many years, consistently awesome pros! “

Jose Latour

“ Very professional staff. I am very pleased with the care I received. Highly recommended. ”

Drew Werner

” Not only Dr Gutt but also the his entire team are very caring and show professionalism. He has been taking care of my husband and I, always with the beat practices and the best technology, I can’t recommend him enough! “

Nancy Ogassawala

“ Doctor who explains thoroughly goes through everything and builds an orderly plan ”

Simona

” I’ve been seeing Dr. Gutt for many years and have always had a positive experience. He and his staff are always very pleasant and take the necessary time to explain all procedures, regardless of the complexity. His work is flawless. I’ve never had any complications from his procedures and most importantly have a healthy set of teeth. “

Dick Shon

” Absolutely the best team in town. Genuinely cares about patients and giving the best corrective dental care. I had continuous dental problems for 20 years until Dr. Gutt took charge of my perio care. Yadira has been the best dental tech I’ve ever had a cleaning with. Highly recommended. Thank you for putting an end to years of struggle. “

Mark Edwards

” Dr. Gutt is excellent. Thorough and extremely capable. We are lucky to have him here in Key West “

William Levinson
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