Braces Can Correct Malocclusion
Malocclusion
A malocclusion occurs when there is misalignment of the teeth. There are various types of malocclusions with varying degrees of symptoms as well. In severe cases, patients may have difficulty in performing routine things such as speaking and chewing. When a malocclusion is left untreated, it can result in serious issues.
Causes
A malocclusion is caused by a difference between the size of the upper and lower jaws or difference between the jaws and the teeth. Other common causes include things such as a cleft lip or palate, use of bottles, thumb sucking and prolonged use of a pacifier. In addition, patients can often expect a malocclusion if they have small teeth, impacted teeth, or teeth which are not shaped properly.
Symptoms
Symptoms associated with a malocclusion can include poor teeth alignment, chewing issues, frequent biting of the cheeks, issues with speech, cosmetic issues, and breathing out of the mouth.
Classifications
It is important for the teeth and jaw to properly align to prevent various issues. A perfect bite is highly uncommon. In a good bite, the teeth in the upper jaw should overlap with the teeth in the lower jaw by a small amount. Any misalignment causes a malocclusion which falls into three different classifications summarized below.
- Class 1: This is the most common type of malocclusion and occurs when there is overcrowding or spacing issues of the teeth. The patient’s bite is not affected.
- Class 2: This class is also called an overbite and occurs when the upper teeth and jaw significantly overlap with the lower jaw and teeth.
- Class 3: This malocclusion occurs when the lower jaw is larger than the upper jaw or pushes forward. It results in an overbite where the teeth in the lower jaw are more visible.
In addition to these three primary types of malocclusions, patients can suffer from other types of alignment issues as well. These can be caused by spacing issues, impacted teeth, genetics, or habits such as the use of a pacifier or thumb sucking.
Treatment
One of the most popular orthodontic treatments for malocclusions is the use of braces. Prior to determining the best treatment, the orthodontist will likely perform a thorough examination, take x-rays, and obtain impressions of the mouth. When a patient has overcrowding, the orthodontist may suggest extracting one or more teeth. This is only performed if necessary, when the mouth has inadequate space needed for the teeth. Below is a summary of common orthodontic treatments used for a malocclusion:
- Braces: This treatment uses brackets which are attached to the teeth and connected with wires. The wire is regularly changed to slowly move the teeth into the desired position.
- Removable Devices: Removable devices include retainers and headgear. Retainers secure the teeth in place which allows the jawbone to properly grow and develop.
- Invisalign: This treatment involves adjusting the teeth with the use of clear aligner trays. The trays are removed for drinking and eating, but transparent and worn for a majority of the day. They work just like braces but are less obvious and often preferred by adult patients.
Call the office today to determine if you or your child has a malocclusion. Early and prompt treatment of malocclusion produces the best results and can expedite the treatment time. It is also important for adults to seek treatment, but they often require more extensive and costly treatment which may take longer to complete.