An orthodontist works on teeth positioning, malocclusion, and other oral and facial-related issues. Orthodontics includes fixing braces to correct misaligned teeth. These oral health experts also correct other issues affecting the teeth, jaws, and facial features that are related to the oral cavity. Here are some of the most frequent general problems that orthodontists deal with:
1. Malocclusions (Misaligned Bite)
Malocclusion refers to the misalignment of the upper and lower teeth when the jaws are closed, and an orthodontist has the ability to correct this issue. This condition can lead to several types of bite issues, such as:
- Overbite: This is a condition in which the upper front teeth slightly overlap the lower front teeth during a normal bite.
- Open Bite: When the front teeth sit higher than the gums, they appear to be slightly separated when the mouth is shut. This condition may be a result of thumb sucking or using a pacifier for a long time.
Misalignments can lead to complications like difficulties with chewing, speech disorders, jaw pain, and accelerated tooth wear. If left unaddressed, these problems can result in patients’ incorrect bites. Orthodontic treatment, such as braces or clear aligners, can rectify these problems.
2. Spacing Issues (Gapped Teeth)
Some people have uneven spacing, meaning that there will be a large gap between the adjacent teeth. This can happen because of naturally wide gaps, or due to missing teeth, or smaller-than-normal teeth. Spacing problems are both cosmetic and structural since spaces between the teeth can cause problems with chewing and may increase the risk of contracting gum diseases. Orthodontists may employ some interventions such as braces or Invisalign treatment to correct the spaces between the teeth.
3. Protruding Teeth
Sometimes, the teeth may be angled outward, especially those in the upper jaw region, which is an orthodontic concern. This may develop from jaws of unequal dimensions or due to thumb sucking or using a pacifier for too long as a child. Misaligned or crooked teeth also present aesthetic issues and are more susceptible to dental injuries because the front teeth are more prominent. Orthodontic treatment can help align the teeth toothe proper position to improve aesthetics and function.
4. Jaw Alignment Problems
Malocclusion consists of abnormalities in jaw relation, including the size or position of the jaw and facial bones. If unaddressed, these issues may lead to facial imbalance, chewing abnormalities, and speech complications. In some cases, a dental patient experiences pain or clicking in the jaw joint. Some of the prominent jaw-related disorders include overjet, cross bite, and underbite.
Contact an Orthodontist for Treatment
Orthodontists are capable of handling numerous dental and facial complications, such as malocclusions, crowding, spacing, and jaw problems, among others. If there are bite problems, aesthetics may not be right, or if there is discomfort that needs to be shifted. In all these situations, orthodontic treatment is central to attaining the right healthy, functional smile. If you have any of them, an orthodontist is helpful, as the treatments enhance oral wellness and well-being.