Symptoms of Malocclusion
Malocclusion is a clinical term used to describe teeth which are not properly aligned. Problems associated with this issue can include overcrowding, an underbite, overbite, or a crossbite. Misaligned teeth make it challenging to complete routine activities such as chewing, biting and speaking. An orthodontist is a dentist with specialized training for treating malocclusions. They work with patients to correct the alignment of the teeth. Orthodontic treatments use various techniques and tools for the adjustment of a misaligned jaw and crooked teeth. The goal is to move the teeth into the correct position and restore the patient’s oral health.
Symptoms
The symptoms of a malocclusion can vary from mild to moderate and even severe. Below is a summary of symptoms commonly associated with a malocclusion:
- Misaligned teeth or abnormal alignment
- Pain or discomfort when chewing food
- Challenges with speech or poor pronunciation
- Breathing difficulties
- Chronically biting the cheeks and tongue
- Facial structure changes
Causes
A malocclusion is often an inherited condition due to the patient’s genes. It can also occur because of specific conditions and habits which can modify the jaw’s shape or structure. Another cause of the teeth drifting out of place is a surplus or deficit of room when the teeth are erupting. Common causes of a malocclusion include the following:
- Bottle use
- Extended pacifier use
- Tooth loss
- Tooth impaction
- Sucking the thumb
- Cleft palate or lip
- Trauma or injury
- Oral tumors
- Obstructed airways due to allergies or other issues
- Poor oral care
Below is a summary of treatment options commonly used to resolve a malocclusion.
Braces
One of the oldest and most effective treatments for a malocclusion is braces. One or more teeth may require extraction prior to beginning treatment. This is especially common for younger patients. Braces work to straighten the teeth or jaw and resolve a misaligned bite. The duration of treatment will vary based on your age and the severity of the malocclusion.
Invisalign
Invisalign is a newer treatment which can be used to treat various types of malocclusions including an underbite, overbite, crossbite, and open bite. The treatment uses aligner trays which are created from a thin, plastic material. A key benefit of this treatment is that it is essentially invisible externally. While the trays can be removed, they must be worn for 20-22 hours daily. The trays slowly shift the teeth and jaw into the desired location. As the teeth and jaw move, new trays are sent to the patient. The timeline for this treatment will vary based on the severity of the issue and the patient’s compliance with wearing the trays for a majority of the day.
Removable Devices
One popular treatment for malocclusions is a removable orthodontic device. These are custom-made for the patient and can offer patients a great deal of convenience. Retainers and headgear are common types of removal devices used in orthodontic treatment. A retainer can also be used following the use of braces to maintain the alignment of teeth and prevent post-treatment shifting. The timeline for treatment will again vary based on the severity of the issue and how compliant the patient is with wearing the device as prescribed.
Patients who are concerned that they may have a malocclusion should contact the office for a consultation. The team can complete an examination and review treatment options to restore your smile.