Malocclusion is a misalignment of the teeth that can be caused by a number of factors. One common cause is genetics, as malocclusion can be passed down from parents to children. Another common cause is habits like thumb sucking, which can put pressure on the teeth and cause them to become misaligned.
In some cases, malocclusion can also be caused by an injury to the mouth or face so if you suspect that you or your child may have malocclusion, it’s important to consult with an orthodontist for you to kickstart your orthodontic treatment in New York at House of Orthodontia.
Teeth misalignment is a common problem in both children and adults worldwide. What’s worse is that some people no longer think of it as an issue, instead, they assume it to be the natural structure of their teeth.
This, however, is not the case. Teeth misalignment is a genuine condition that is experienced when your jaw is closed and your teeth do not align correctly, which can be caused by crooked teeth, an underbite, or an overbite.
The Harmful Effects of Malocclusion
As orthodontists, we always get asked, “What is the big deal with teeth alignment?” What I’d like to tell you is that malocclusion not only makes it difficult for people to clean their teeth properly but also causes a slew of additional issues.
For instance, cavities and gum diseases form more easily because it is difficult to clean all the nooks and crannies of misaligned teeth. In addition, chewing becomes difficult because the pressure is not evenly distributed while chewing – this often leads to broken teeth.
Furthermore, one’s facial appearance is significantly impacted by their teeth alignment. I think we all know by now that your smile is one of the first things people see! What’s more, is that it is the one that gives people an impression upon meeting you.
Even something as simple as speaking can be difficult with malocclusion because it often causes a lisp. So next time you ask yourself whether or not you should fix your teeth alignment, just remember all the difficulties that come with having malocclusion!
The Types of Malocclusions You Should Be Aware Of
There are many different types of malocclusions or bad bites. Overbite, teeth crowding, and crossbite is just a few of the more common problems that can occur.
#1 – Overbite
occurs when the upper teeth protrude too far over the lower teeth. This can cause the lower teeth to grind against the gums, which can lead to pain and inflammation.
#2 – Teeth crowding
happens when there is not enough room in the mouth for all of the teeth. This can cause the teeth to become crooked or crowded together.
#3 – Crossbite
occurs when the upper and lower teeth do not line up correctly. This can cause one side of the mouth to work harder than the other, resulting in pain and tension headaches.
#4 – Open Bite
occurs when there is a space between the upper and lower teeth when the mouth is closed. This can make it difficult to chew food properly and can also lead to Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) problems.
#5 – Underbite
occurs when the lower teeth protrude out further than the upper teeth which can cause problems with chewing and speaking.
The Types of Orthodontic Treatment for Misaligned Teeth
If your teeth are anything like my collection of Biology textbooks from college, then they’re probably in dire need of a good alignment. And just like my college textbooks, conventional braces are not the most attractive option out there. Here are the types of braces for misaligned teeth:
#1 – Metal Braces
Metal braces are one of the most effective orthodontic treatments available today. Not only are they highly effective at straightening teeth, but they’re also relatively affordable and easy to maintain.
In addition, metal braces are also very strong and durable, making them ideal for people who play sports or participate in other activities that could damage more delicate orthodontic devices.
#2 – Ceramic Braces
Ceramic braces are a type of braces that are made of clear or white ceramic. They are less visible than metal braces, but they still require regular adjustments. Ceramic braces are suitable for treating most types of malocclusions, but they may not be right for everyone.
The orthodontist will need to assess your individual case to determine if ceramic braces are the best option for you. If you have severe malocclusion, ceramic braces may not be able to correct the problem. In some cases, metal braces may be needed in addition to ceramic braces to achieve the desired results.
#3 – Invisalign
Malocclusions are nothing to smile about, but at least with Invisalign, you can minimize the impact of your crooked teeth while still enjoying all your favorite foods. Invisalign is a clear aligner system that uses a series of custom-made trays to gradually straighten teeth.
Unlike traditional braces, Invisalign is virtually invisible, so you can continue to smile throughout your treatment.
In addition, Invisalign allows you to eat whatever you want and brush and floss normally, making it a more convenient and comfortable option for many patients.
#4 – Dental Implants
While there are many different treatments for malocclusions like orthodontic braces, dental implants are becoming an increasingly popular option.
Dental implants are titanium posts that are surgically placed into the jawbone, and they act as artificial roots for replacement teeth. One of the main benefits of dental implants is that they are very strong and stable, which makes them ideal for patients who have active lifestyles or who want to avoid the hassle of traditional braces.
In addition, dental implants can be used to support dentures or bridges, and they can also help to preserve the jawbone by preventing it from shrinking. As a result, dental implants offer a number of advantages for patients with malocclusions.
#5 – Porcelain Veneers
Veneers are a type of orthodontic treatment that can be used to correct a wide variety of dental problems, including malocclusions. Veneers are made from thin pieces of porcelain that are custom-made to fit over the front surface of the teeth.
They are bonded in place using a special resin, and they can provide an extremely natural-looking result. In addition, veneers are strong and durable, and they can resist staining and discoloration.
Conclusion
There’s nothing to be ashamed of if you have misaligned teeth. However, with so many options available, it can be hard to know which one is right for you. That’s why it’s important to schedule a consultation with an experienced orthodontist who can help you choose the best treatment for your unique situation.
At House of Orthodontics, we offer a wide range of orthodontic options, from traditional braces to invisible aligners or Invisalign. We also offer flexible financing plans to make treatment affordable for everyone. So don’t wait any longer, call us today and let us help you get the smile you’ve always wanted!
