Dental malocclusion is a very common problem, and there isn’t any one specific reason why it happens. Fortunately, with the advancements in dental technology, there are now treatments that can correct a number of dental alignment, bite and occlusion-related issues much more efficiently than before. Contrary to what most people think, orthodontic treatments aren’t only meant to give patients a more attractive looking smile. In fact, one of the main issues that the treatment targets is improper bite.
What are dental bite issues and how do they affect children?
A healthy bite is one that allows you to bite, chew and swallow your food normally without causing any damage to the teeth, or the surrounding soft tissues. It also allows you to speak normally, to smile effortlessly, and to breathe orally, if needed. Issues related to the bite can result from overcrowding of the arches, or under/over-erupted teeth that disturb the overall occlusion.
If your child has bite related issues, he/she probably finds it difficult to eat food, and talk normally. You may also notice damaged soft tissues, disturbed sleeping patterns and increased dental sensitivity from the gradual wearing down of teeth – all of which indicate that braces and orthodontic appliances are needed to correct the bite.
How can Orthodontic treatments and braces fix a bite?
Yes! Braces alone, or combined with other appliances for a more targeted approach, can effectively treat bite-related issues in children to relieve problems associated with eating food, speaking, smiling and even breathing orally. Conventional orthodontic treatments involve the placement of molar bands, and metal/ceramic braces usually on the front surfaces of the teeth. A wire is then passed through the slots of these brackets to initiate the repositioning of crooked teeth. Often, to relieve overcrowding in an arch, orthodontists advise a few extractions to make space in the upper and lower jaws. The extra space thus gained can help align teeth in a better way without affecting the bite.
What are the different types of incorrect bites that need to be treated by braces?
Some common bite issues include:
- Overbite
- Under-bite
- Cross bite
- Scissor bite
Bite issues are diagnosed with the help of dental examination, impressions, cephalometric analysis and jaw analysis. They are then treated using different appliances that aim to reposition problem-causing teeth, and bring them towards straighter, more aligned positions in the arches.
Expert pediatric dentists and orthodontists agree that the best time to get braces is when the jaw is still developing. This allows for different appliances to be used to essentially ‘mould’ a bite before any problems start manifesting, or your child’s daily life starts getting effected. If you feel that your child needs braces, give us a call today and we’ll be happy to help you out!