Phantom bite: a case report and literature review

Phantom bite is a rare and challenging condition that dentists may encounter in their daily clinical practice. Patients with phantom bite typically present with many failed repeated occlusal treatments, such as full-mouth prosthetic reconstructions and orthodontic treatments, to overcome their distressing symptoms.

A 55-year-old female with no history of medical problems presented with bite discomfort. She complained of discomfort from a "bite" and pressure-like feeling in her right upper three maxillary posterior teeth. Examination revealed no temporomandibular disorder (TMD) abnormalities. A thorough evaluation of her oral structures revealed no dental, periodontal, or mucosal pathologies.

Owing to the great potential of conditions for financial loss and litigation problems, dentists, particularly those who perform bite-changing procedures, should be aware of this condition. This case is presented to highlight many of the clinical characteristics of phantom bite.