As orthodontists, we use an interesting word: malocclusion. It’s a medical term for bite problems, and today at Texas Family Orthodontics, we want to tell our patients all about how orthodontics can fix your bite.
Types of Bite Problems
You may recognize terms such as overbite or underbite, but the challenges associated with your bite can be more intricate. These issues may also encompass the gaps between your teeth. The inherent growth patterns of our jaws or subsequent trauma can result in imperfect alignment, affecting the natural functioning of our jaws.
Dr. Vo regularly deals with a wide range of bite problems. Exploring images online might prove helpful in gaining a clearer understanding of the differences between these conditions!
- Overbite (Deep Bite): An overbite occurs when the upper front teeth extend considerably beyond the lower front teeth vertically. This condition may lead to increased wear on the lower front teeth and potential issues with the jaw and joints.
- Underbite: Marked by the lower front teeth extending beyond the upper front teeth, an underbite not only affects facial aesthetics but can also pose challenges in chewing.
- Open Bite: An open bite is identified when the upper and lower front teeth do not meet upon closing the mouth. This condition can result in speech difficulties, problems biting into specific foods, and concerns related to appearance.
- Crossbite: Crossbite occurs when some upper teeth sit inside the lower teeth when the jaws are closed. This condition, affecting one or more teeth, can lead to uneven wear, gum recession, and misalignment of the jaw.
- Crowding: Crowding arises when there is insufficient jaw space for the proper alignment of all teeth. This may be due to factors such as missing teeth, small teeth, or excessive jaw space.
- Crossbite (Anterior or Posterior): A crossbite can also occur in the back molars (posterior) or front teeth (anterior) of the upper and lower jaws.
- Midline Misalignment: Midline misalignment refers to a deviation in the centerline alignment of the upper and lower teeth, impacting the symmetry of the smile.
- Diastema: Diastema is defined by noticeable gaps between teeth, often prominently seen between the upper front teeth.
Consequences of Bite Problems
Before delving into corrective strategies, let’s examine the consequences of leaving these issues unaddressed without resorting to braces or alternative orthodontic treatments.
- Tooth Wear and Damage: The noticeable effects of malocclusions might take time to appear, but they create an uneven distribution of biting forces, causing excessive wear on specific teeth. This can lead to the premature erosion of tooth enamel, along with instances of chipping or fractures.
- Jaw Pain and Discomfort: Misaligned jaws or an improper bite can contribute to temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, resulting in significant discomfort, persistent jaw pain, and difficulties in opening and closing the mouth.
- Difficulty Chewing and Speaking: Bite issues disrupt normal speech and chewing patterns, causing digestion problems and hindering speech due to the improper processing of food.
- Increased Risk of Gum Disease: Misaligned teeth can be challenging to clean effectively, increasing the likelihood of plaque buildup and decay. Neglecting this issue may result in gum inflammation and the onset of periodontal disease.
- Breathing Problems: Crossbites and overbites, especially, can contribute to breathing difficulties. Depending on their severity, they may obstruct the jaws and airways.
- Limited Treatment Options: When bite problems go unaddressed for an extended period, the available range of treatments may be significantly restricted. This could lead to a more intricate path to alignment, potentially involving more invasive procedures in addition to braces.
Correction of Bite Problems
Having pinpointed the main concerns, let’s explore how braces stand out as an exceptional solution for tackling a range of these issues. The fundamental objective of braces is to achieve alignment, whether it involves the teeth, jaws, or a combination of both.
- Correction of Overbite: Braces work to reposition both upper and lower teeth, promoting a more balanced bite.
- Correction of Underbite: Typically, this involves moving the lower teeth backward to achieve proper alignment.
- Correction of Open Bite: Braces are successful in closing the gap between upper and lower teeth, facilitating proper alignment when the mouth is closed.
- Jaw Correction: Braces directly contribute to aligning the jaw, enhancing facial symmetry, and improving overall comfort for the patient.
- Correction of Spacing: The pressure applied by wires and brackets in traditional braces proves effective in gradually closing gaps between teeth, establishing them as a dependable solution for addressing spacing issues.
Braces present a viable option for patients of various age groups, yet it is generally recommended to address these issues sooner rather than later. For children, in particular, braces play a pivotal role as a proactive measure. It is crucial to emphasize that it’s never too late; treatments are accessible for individuals of all ages.
Straight to the Point
No matter the state of your bite, rest assured that we offer a solution tailored to your needs in our office! Whether you are a patient or a parent seeking help, your search ends here. If you are considering treatment, feel free to reach out by calling our San Antonio or Windcrest offices at 210-903-5480.