COMMON MALOCCLUSION ISSUES CORRECTED BY BRACES

WHAT IS MALOCCLUSION?

Malocclusion, or bad bites, refers to the misalignment of upper and lower teeth—a prevalent dental problem. While minor cases can be treated with braces, more severe issues may require surgery, especially when teeth are overcrowded or don’t fit in the mouth properly. Ignoring malocclusion can lead to various health problems, affecting not only dental health but also appearance, chewing, and speech.

CAUSES:

Causes of malocclusion vary such as:

Excessive thumb-sucking
Overcrowded teeth,
Tooth loss, and
Hereditary conditions affecting the jaw.

SYMPTOMS:

Symptoms include:

Difficulty chewing and speaking,
Mouth breathing, and
An inability to bite food correctly, potentially causing damage to tooth enamel.

TREATMENT:

Treatment options include braces to correct misalignment, as well as invisible aligners for a more invisible option. Extra teeth can be removed in rare cases to prevent overcrowding. Severe malocclusion may require surgery, especially if it is a genetic issue.

Regular dental check-ups, at least twice or thrice a year, are crucial. Additionally, brushing twice daily and flossing once a day are essential practices to maintain oral health and prevent various dental problems. By addressing malocclusion early, individuals can enjoy improved dental function, appearance, and overall well-being.