Malocclusion treatment is what you’re looking for when your upper teeth and lower teeth are not aligned properly. Malocclusion is the term used when your teeth do not fit together correctly when you close your mouth. Correcting malocclusion improves your smile and oral health. Thankfully, orthodontics offers several modern solutions for the whole family to restore proper tooth occlusion.
Table of Contents: We will cover:
- Treatments for malocclusion: Braces, Aligners, and orthodontic appliances
- Tooth manipulation or removal to correct malocclusion
- Surgical malocclusion treatments
- How to recognize malocclusion
Malocclusion Can Be Corrected with Orthodontic and Surgical Treatments
Malocclusion therapy or treatment must be customized because every smile is different. Some smiles have minor spacing concerns, while those with severe malocclusion issues experience discomfort and malfunctions. The good news: most malocclusions are corrected with braces or clear aligners to align teeth for form and function.
Tooth removal, reshaping, or specialized appliances are used to correct severe malocclusions. Surgical solutions, although rare, may be necessary to correct jaw alignment.
A professional evaluation offers hope for every smile with malocclusion therapy tailored just for you.
Braces, Aligners, and Orthodontic Appliances
Traditional braces (metal or ceramic) work great for correcting most dental malocclusions. With brackets and wires, braces apply steady tension to gradually and safely pull teeth into their proper place.
Clear aligners can be used to treat mild to moderate dental malocclusions. Aligners are clear, discreet, and removable custom trays that gently move teeth into place without the need for fixed brackets and wires.
Other orthopedic appliances for jaw development include expanders to create the space needed for effective tooth alignment.
Tooth Removal and Dental Corrections
Tooth removal could be required when overcrowded teeth prevent proper tooth alignment. Orthodontists will strategically remove one or two teeth to allow the remaining teeth enough space to be aligned correctly. Tooth removal is used for correcting severe malocclusion.
Other malocclusion cases require dental corrections such as reshaping, bonding, or repairing worn or uneven restorations to correct tooth alignment. The size, shape, or tooth surfaces are altered to support a healthier occlusion. After dental corrections are completed, orthodontic care can effectively correct the tooth alignment needed for a healthy, confident smile.
When Surgery Is Needed for Severe Malocclusion
In rare instances, surgery is necessary for severe malocclusions. Sometimes, jaw alignment makes it challenging to achieve a healthy bite through orthodontics alone. Orthodontic surgery reshapes or repositions the jaw for optimal function and appearance. Correcting structural issues surgically could be the best option for restoring the proper occlusion of the teeth that makes chewing and speaking easier for a lifetime. Surgical treatment is only recommended when it’s the best option; your orthodontic team will support you with exceptional care through the entire process.
Also Read: What Is Invisalign Teen® and How Does It Work?
What Are the Symptoms of Malocclusion?
With awareness of the symptoms, parents can start malocclusion therapy early and achieve efficient results.
Common symptoms of malocclusion are:
- Difficulty with biting or chewing food
- Speech problems, such as lisping
- Jaw pain or discomfort
- Uneven tooth wear
- Upper teeth and lower teeth are not aligned
- Mouth breathing
- Abnormal facial features
In addition to your observations, a dentist will refer you to an orthodontist during a regular checkup when the signs of malocclusion are present. An early orthodontic evaluation can head off the progression of symptoms before they worsen. Your orthodontist will offer sound advice for oral care and ways to stop thumb sucking in children to reduce the severity of malocclusion later on. Correcting tooth alignment makes oral care easier, reduces tooth decay and periodontal diseases, and eliminates strain on the teeth, jaws, and muscles. Addressing the signs of malocclusion early supports a healthy smile with long-term results, but it’s never too late to start. Orthodontic care for adults is highly successful, but the process may take longer.
Take the First Step Toward a Healthier, Aligned Smile
The definition of dental malocclusion raises awareness of tooth alignment issues that may require correction. Malocclusion treatment options (braces, aligners, dental corrections, or surgery) are tailored to individual needs and are highly successful with long-term results.
Early malocclusion therapy is recommended because it offers a simpler, more efficient process. If you’re in Temecula or Hemet, CA, schedule an orthodontic consultation with Miles of Smiles today. A personalized malocclusion therapy plan will help you or your child achieve a healthy, confident smile.
