Fact 2: Tracing the Origins
Where does the open bite come from? Is it purely genetic, a stroke of destiny written in our DNA? Or is it a consequence of habits, the outcome of certain actions, and behaviors? The reality is, it’s often a mix of both. Our genes indeed play a role; after all, they dictate a lot about our physical appearance, including the dental structure.
However, it’s not just about the genes. Habits, especially those ingrained during early childhood, play a significant role. Prolonged thumb sucking, for instance, can be a key culprit. A toddler with a thumb constantly in the mouth can influence the way the teeth grow, leading to misalignment.
Then there’s tongue thrusting – a seemingly harmless act where the tongue pushes against the front teeth when swallowing. Over time, this can cause the front teeth to protrude, leading to that characteristic gap we associate with an open bite.
Extended use of pacifiers or bottle-feeding can also be contributors. While they pacify the child, they can simultaneously influence dental growth patterns. The tale of the open bite’s origin is thus not just a story of genes but also a narrative of habits, choices, and early childhood behaviors. (2)
