You might need to visit an orthodontist if your jaw is not aligned. A misaligned jaw can prevent the upper and lower teeth from meeting comfortably. The two most noticeable types of misalignment are underbites and overbites. An orthodontist can correct this issue. Generally, you will always want to align your jaws if they do not meet.
Jaw misalignment can cause both emotional and physical problems. If the condition is severe enough, it may cause problems when sleeping, eating, speaking and even breathing. When the joint of the jaw cannot function, a patient will often experience chronic pain. When a child has misaligned jaws, the child will often experience teasing. Jaw misalignment can also result in lower self-esteem. The good news is that there are treatment options.
Braces are a common treatment for both crooked teeth and misaligned jaws. Braces are very useful when it comes to overbites. The braces can bring the upper teeth back into position while moving the lower jaw forward. In this treatment, an orthodontist will place brackets and wires over the teeth. Then the orthodontist will adjust the pressure on each tooth, which can move the teeth into position.
If the jaw misalignment is more severe, braces alone will not achieve results. This is when a patient may wear headgear with the braces. Usually, children get headgear most often. It is more effective when the jaws are still growing.
For an overbite, a patient may wear a retraction headgear to move the upper jaw back. A protraction headgear can move the upper jaw forward. A patient will need to wear the headgear for about 12 to 14 hours every day. This is usually done while the patient is sleeping.
Another type of headgear is the reverse pull face mask. This is worn during the night as well. Patients who have this type of treatment will have metal braces on the back teeth. This will then be attached to a face mask. The goal of this treatment is to gently move the upper jaw back. When braces alone are not enough to correct an overbite, this is usually helpful.
Sometimes, a jaw is severely misaligned. In this case, an orthodontist will recommend surgery. The surgeon may gently break the jaw and move it into place. Screws, plates and wires can all be used to keep the jaw in place during healing. However, this is usually reserved for extremely severe cases where the jaw’s misalignment will cause problems with speaking and eating.
If you have a misaligned jaw, it can be difficult to know when to get treatment. However, it is a good idea to visit an orthodontist for a consultation. You can work with your orthodontist to determine which treatment option would be right for you. From braces to headgear to surgery, there are several ways that you can have your misalignment fixed.
Request an appointment here: https://www.loveortho.com or call Lovrovich Orthodontics at (206) 525-7000 for an appointment in our Seattle office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Orthodontist in Seattle, WA.
Wondering whether wearing retainers is really necessary? Read on to learn more. You know braces and aligners can help you get those straight teeth you desire, but retainers are the next step. These little devices will keep your teeth aligned and your smile beautiful for years.Retainers are custom orthodontic devices that help keep the teeth…
Looking for a braces specialist? Read on to learn more. You might be hesitant to see a braces specialist if you already see a general dentist regularly. In some cases, patients have an individual situation that requires consulting a specialist. Generally, these professionals have more experience in orthodontics and a consultation with them might make…
Ceramic braces can be a great alternative to traditional metal brackets. Clear ceramic braces are a popular choice for adults and older teens who want something less obvious than traditional braces but who still want the benefits of a fixed system. Knowing the benefits of this bracket system will allow you to determine if it…
Invisalign® is a modern teeth-straightening option that serves as an alternative to metal braces. Invisalign eliminates the need for brackets and wires; instead, it uses a series of clear plastic aligners to realign the teeth. Although lots of individuals are aware of the aesthetic advantages of Invisalign, like a straighter smile, there are also health…
Retainers are custom orthodontic devices that help keep the teeth straight after braces or aligners…
Orthodontists treat many different types of dental problems, including misaligned teeth, crowded teeth or gaps…
Many people find ceramic straighteners more comfortable than metal. They are less abrasive than some…
Although lots of individuals are aware of the aesthetic advantages of Invisalign®, like a straighter…
Nowadays, multiple options exist for those looking to realign their teeth, but it may be…
If you are looking for "an orthodontist near me," choose one who actively engages with…
