Nearly 20% of the population in the U.S. has at least some level of facial growth deformity that is considered significant. A facial deformity means that part of the face grew either too little or too much. There are also times a cleft is formed from bones that do not connect.

These facial skeletal deformities tend to occur in the lower face, the lower third to be precise. These deformities can range from mild to severe. Most orthodontists can treat mild cases. However, only the best local orthodontist knows how to achieve the best results without compromising your facial aesthetics.

What Are the Different Types of Skeletal Deformities?

• • Open Bite

• • Overbite

• • Underbite or Protruding Jaw

• • Asymmetry

• • Gummy Smile

• • Cleft Palate

Are There Signs and Symptoms to Watch?

There are signs and symptoms of facial deformities that include some physical limitations with chewing and eating, speech impediments, jaw pain due to strained muscles, lisps, worn tooth enamel, gum disease, soft tissue damage, and damage to front teeth. Many times, a facial deformity will impose self-esteem issues and cause a person to become more self-conscious. Both of those difficulties can cause psychological problems.

There Are Possible Treatments

The only way to find out what type of treatment would work best for you is to schedule an orthodontic exam with the best local orthodontist. They have the means to immediately treat mild cases by safely and properly aligning your bite without sacrificing any of your facial aesthetics. Your orthodontist will discuss treatment options with you, so you end up with a happy and healthy smile.

Invisalign Is a Possibility

A great treatment option that is hardly noticeable is Invisalign. The best orthodontist can tell you how well these invisible aligners can gently shift crooked teeth to fix skeletal deformities. About every two weeks, aligners are changed to continue straightening teeth until they are corrected. Invisalign aligners assist with correcting overbites that are not too severe.

Mild Facial Deformities Can Also Be Treated with Braces

Braces are used to straighten teeth so a skeletal deformity can be fixed, as well. Once your teeth are straight, then the next step can begin. The second stage involves fixing a bite deformity by adding springs, coils, and rubber bands. Once they are in place, they start to slowly shift teeth. It is important to understand that the jawline is not shifted. The shifting of your teeth is what will fix your jawline. This type of treatment is possible with the care provided by the best local orthodontist.

Do You Need Surgical Orthodontics?

Orthognathic surgery, or surgical orthodontics, is an orthodontic treatment that can correct severe jawbone abnormalities, bad bites, and malocclusion. The focus is on treating cases of complex craniofacial deformities that concern the skull, face, mouth, and jaw. The best local orthodontist knows how to spot severe cases and will work alongside a maxillofacial and oral surgeon to ensure you get the finest care possible if you require surgical orthodontics.

How Does Orthognathic Surgery Work?

First, braces are required, so your teeth are correctly aligned before surgery. An oral and maxillofacial surgeon performs the next phase, which is surgery. This type of surgery can take several hours. You will need a two-week resting period afterward.

Once your jaw heals, your orthodontist will be able to fine-tune your new bite. The final stage involves continuing to wear braces. Typically, you will need to wear them for six months to a year. After they are removed, wear your retainer to fully maintain a beautiful smile.

It is important to address a skeletal deformity. If you don’t, you could develop muscle tension, pain in the TMJ, speech problems, and the inability to chew correctly. Contact the best local orthodontist in your area and schedule an exam to find out all of your options.