Misaligned teeth affect more than just one’s self-image. They are difficult to clean, affect your overall body health, and may also impair speech. Straightening your teeth can be a life-changing experience that allows you to smile without second-guessing yourself. Advancements in orthodontic technology now allow for subtle brace options with shorter treatment spans.
Here are the five most common problems a family orthodontist can fix:
1. Misaligned Jaws and Midlines
Jaw misalignment can result in uneven bites, resulting in the patient experiencing a lot of pain and discomfort. The misaligned jaw causes a strain on the temporal mandibular joint which then results in a TMJ disorder.
The National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research indicates that the temporomandibular joint and muscle disorder (TMJD) affects between 5-12% of the population. Fortunately, it is a treatable condition but your orthodontist will have to recommend the most viable TMJ treatment depending on severity.
2. Crowding
One of the most common dental problems is overcrowding. The teeth bunch up, twisting, and overlapping and it can be painful at times. Additionally, the teeth are difficult to brush and floss, resulting in gum inflammations and dental caries. An orthodontist can correct crowding either using braces or by removing the offending teeth. This will not only give you a better smile but it also helps you chew better.
3. Periodontal Issues
Persons with misaligned teeth have a difficult time brushing the teeth. It is nearly impossible to floss due to the overlaps and twists between the teeth. Poor oral hygiene results in food particles accumulating in the teeth, which may cause gum disease. Teeth straightening makes it easier to maintain proper dental hygiene, thus keeping periodontitis at bay.
4. Spacing
The improper spacing of teeth results in gaps notorious for accumulating food particles. The space between the two front teeth known as a diastema may carry on into adulthood. Orthodontic treatments such as Invisalign can apply gentle pressure to the teeth, align them, and correct the gap issue.
5. Improper Bites
Bad bites affect one’s ability to chew and swallow food. Orthodontics rectify the malocclusions using braces, allowing you to have a more natural bite. Specific treatment options may be preferable depending on the type and severity of your condition.
The most common bite problems include:
Overbites and Underbites
Overbites result from an excessive overlap of the front teeth of the upper jaw over the teeth on the lower jaw. The forward protrusion leads to a deep bite. In underbites, the lower jaw protrudes over the upper jaw, causing an overlap of the lower teeth. The malocclusions cause faster wearing down of teeth as well as teeth sensitivity. Braces treatments are effective in resolving this type of teeth misalignment.
Open Bites
In patients with open bites, the upper and lower front teeth do not touch. It may result from excessive pacifier use or thumb sucking in children, with the condition persisting into adulthood. Orthodontics can realign the teeth, allowing you to have a proper bite.
Crossbites
The upper teeth sit inside the lower teeth, causing faster wearing down of the teeth. The patient is also susceptible to chipping, tooth sensitivity, and gum problems. In most cases, braces treatment is used to rectify crossbites.
Schedule an Appointment Today
Orthodontics and oral care technologies continue to offer incredible solutions to patients with misaligned teeth. Get your smile and confidence back with Dr. David Ross by choosing the right treatment option for your teeth.
