Malocclusion refers to the misalignment of your teeth and jaws. This oral condition can impact your overall health, self-esteem, and quality of life.
Fortunately, advanced progresses in orthodontic and dental technology have introduced effective malocclusion treatment options.
Dentist Rancho Bernardo from Hekmat Dental Care offers comprehensive dental care services to families across San Diego, CA.
The dental team is experienced and makes use of advanced technologies and premium materials to treat not just general, but restorative and cosmetic procedures.
Let’s examine the causes, types, diagnosis, and treatment modalities available for malocclusion, highlighting the importance of seeking timely intervention.
Understanding Malocclusion:
Malocclusion refers to any deviation from the ideal alignment of teeth and jaws. You can notice the signs in various forms –
1. Crooked or Crowded Teeth
Teeth that are not aligned properly or appear crowded can indicate malocclusion.
2. Overbite
When the up front teeth significantly overlap the lower front teeth, it’s called an overbite.
3. Underbite
An underbite occurs when the bottom front teeth protrude beyond the upper front teeth.
4. Crossbite
In a crossbite, some upper teeth fit inside the lower teeth when biting down.
5. Difficulty Chewing or Biting
Malocclusion can make it challenging to chew food properly.
6. Speech Issues
Some types of malocclusion can lead to speech difficulties or lisps.
7. Jaw Pain or Discomfort
Misaligned jaws can result in jaw pain, headaches, or discomfort.
8. Excessive Wear
Uneven tooth wear can occur when teeth do not fit together correctly.
9. Breathing Problems
Severe malocclusion might contribute to breathing difficulties, especially in cases where the jaw structure affects the airway.
Malocclusion can be attributed to several factors like –
- Genetic
- Thumb sucking
- Pacifier use
- Mouth breathing
- Improper tongue posture
- Early loss of primary teeth
Types of Malocclusion:
1. Class I Malocclusion
This is the most common type, where the molars are properly aligned, but there may be crowding or spacing issues in the front teeth.
2. Class II Malocclusion
Also known as an overbite, the upper jaw significantly protrudes over the lower jaw.
3. Class III Malocclusion
Referred to as the lower jaw protrudes or underbite beyond the upper jaw.
4. Crossbite
This occurs when the upper teeth sit inside the lower teeth, causing misalignment.
5. Open Bite
An open space between the lower or upper front teeth when the back teeth bite together.
Diagnosing Malocclusion:
Diagnosing malocclusion involves a thorough examination by a qualified orthodontist or dentist.
This includes:
1. Clinical Examination
The orthodontist assesses dental and facial features, looking for misalignments, gaps, and irregularities.
2. X-rays
Radiographic images help visualize the position and condition of teeth, roots, and jaws.
3. Impressions
Dental impressions aid in creating models of the teeth and jaws for precise analysis.
Malocclusion Treatment Options:
1. Orthodontic Braces
Traditional metal or ceramic braces are affixed to teeth, gradually shifting them into proper alignment over time.
2. Invisalign
Clear, removable aligners offer a discreet alternative to traditional braces, suitable for mild to moderate malocclusion cases.
3. Retainers
These are used post-braces to maintain the corrected alignment.
4. Orthognathic Surgery
In severe cases, surgical intervention might be necessary to correct misalignment of the jaws.
5. Palatal Expanders
Used to widen the upper jaw, particularly in cases of crossbite.
6. Tooth Extraction
In overcrowded cases, removing one or more teeth may facilitate proper alignment.
7. Functional Appliances
These devices help correct jaw growth discrepancies in growing children.
Importance of Early Intervention:
Timely treatment of malocclusion is crucial, especially during childhood and adolescence when the jaws are still developing.
Early intervention can prevent more severe malocclusion and may reduce the need for extensive treatment later in life.
Oral Health and Overall Well-being:
Effective malocclusion treatment extends beyond aesthetics. Properly aligned teeth contribute to better oral hygiene, reduced risk of tooth decay and gum disease, improved speech, and enhanced chewing efficiency. Moreover, a confident smile can boost self-esteem and overall well-being.
On Zocdoc, an online platform the ratings for Dr. Hekmat is 4.76. It gives an idea of how effective the professional team is and even the professionalism of the staff towards their patients.
So, seek professional guidance because early intervention is important, don’t hesitate to address malocclusion concerns and embark on the journey towards a beautiful, functional smile.Top of Form
