What Are the Common Orthodontic Problems and How Can You Treat Them?
Introduction
When the jaws and teeth don’t properly align, it causes bit problems. These problems can hamper a beautiful smile and cause other issues like gum disease, tooth decay, and even tooth loss. Therefore, when should you get orthodontics near you?
In this article, we discuss several orthodontic problems and standard treatment plans. Kindly follow through.
What is Orthodontics?
Orthodontics is suitable for correcting teeth and jaw misalignment. These misalignment problems are also known as malocclusion, and they affect the appearance of the teeth. In addition, orthodontic problems affect chewing and speech.
What Are Orthodontic Problems?
A balanced bite is when the upper teeth fit slightly over the lower teeth, and the opposite molar points fit in each other’s grooves. Any variation from this results in an improper bite. Common orthodontic problems include;
Abnormal Eruption
An abnormal eruption occurs when a tooth erupts through the gum in the wrong place. Usually, this happens when there isn’t enough space on the jaws for teeth eruption
Crowding
Similar to an abnormal eruption, crowding occurs when the jaw lacks enough space to accommodate the teeth. In this case, the teeth are too big, or the jaws are too small. Therefore, the teeth do not fit within the jaws.
Spacing
Spacing occurs due to unnatural gaps between the teeth. Sometimes, spacing may result from some teeth failing to grow or getting lost due to trauma. Excessive spacing may cause nearby teeth to shift out of position and expose the gums to bacterial infections.
Overjet
Overjet is a result of the upper front teeth extending farther than the lower teeth. This bite problem can be genetic or a result of improper jaw development.
Crossbite
Crossbite occurs when the mouth closes, and the upper teeth sit inside the lower teeth. This bite problem happens when there is a misalignment of the upper and lower jaws.
Open bite
When there is no overlapping of the upper front teeth and the lower front teeth, it results in an open bite. This bite problem can be a result of prolonged thumb sucking or tongue thrusting
Overbite
This bite problem occurs when the upper front teeth bite farther than the lower teeth. Overbite can wear down the teeth.
Underbite
This bite problem occurs when the lower front teeth extend beyond the upper front teeth; this usually results from lower jaw undergrowth or upper jaw undergrowth.
Why Is Orthodontic Treatment Necessary?
Orthodontic treatment fixes bite problems. Bite problems left untreated can affect your smile and even increase the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Tooth loss, speech impairment, and chewing problems are also reasons for getting orthodontic treatment.
For orthodontics in Katy, TX, you get dental examinations, X-rays, and plastic teeth models before commencing a treatment plan.
Orthodontic Treatment Methods
Depending on the severity, an orthodontist in Katy, may prescribe fixed or removable appliances to correct a bite problem. Fixed orthodontic treatments are suitable for more severe bite problems. With the exclusion of sticky and sugary foods, fixed appliances allow you to eat normally. Braces, fixed-space maintainers, and special fixed appliances are all examples of fixed orthodontic treatments.
On the other hand, removable appliances are suitable for minor bite problems. It is best to remove these appliances only when eating, brushing, or flossing. Teeth aligners, headgear, palatal expanders, lip and cheek bumpers are all examples of removable orthodontic treatment. Jaw repositioning appliances, removable space maintainers, and removable retainers are also suitable for resolving bite problems.
How Does Orthodontic Treatment Work?
When orthodontic appliances are placed over the teeth, they apply gentle forces that gradually push the teeth and jaws into their ideal position over time.
Conclusion
Orthodontic treatments are necessary for preventing oral health problems and giving you a beautiful smile. To get orthodontics in Katy, TX, visit our dental clinic for diagnosis and proper treatment.