The Bad Effects Of Malocclusion And Its Prevention And Treatment

Malocclusion is a condition of crooked or crowded teeth, most easily described as a misalignment problem. Malocclusion is a common problem and the severity ranges from mild to severe. More than just an issue of beauty or aesthetics; malocclusions can cause various health side effects and if left untreated will continue to worsen. There are various types and causes of malocclusions as well as methods of prevention and treatment. Following are some of the ways you or your child can do to avoid developing a condition, the risks, and what procedures are used in its correction.

Prevention

The primary method of avoiding malocclusion is regular visits to your dentist. Your dentist can quickly identify any type of alignment issues and suggest ways to avoid a problem. This is particularly important for children, because their teeth undergo much more change than adults, and many of the problems that need correction later in life, have their beginnings in childhood. Baby teeth affect the alignment of adult teeth as they act as a guide for positioning. Pacifiers, mouth breathing, and thumb sucking can have a negative effect on your child’s teeth. Accidents and poor dental hygiene can also affect the alignment of the teeth.

Causes and Effects

Dental alignment issues are mainly caused by genetics, but diet can have a negative effect as well. A diet consisting of only soft foods does not provide enough bite force and grinding action, to negate the tendency of the teeth to grow closer inward. This can cause crowding and twisting of the teeth. The size of the upper jaw (maxilla) in relation to the lower (mandible) and the size of an individual’s teeth is mostly determined by genetics. When these three factors are not in harmony many types of alignment issues can occur. The effects can result in an elevated risk of gum disease, tooth decay, and bad breath. Malocclusions are a factor in self-esteem and confidence issues, even leading to depression.

Types

There are several types of malocclusion. Including: Open Bite, Cross Bite, Under Bite, Deep Bite, Crowding, and Spacing. Get expert diagnosis of alignment issues from Lane Cove orthodontics or from an orthodontist near you.

Treatment

The treatment of dental malocclusion needs to be considered on a case by case basis. Your dentist will have to assess the condition and prescribe the right method of correction. It is possible that there will be stages of correction that will be followed by using a retainer for a year or so after. The most common forms of correction are traditional braces, and the newer polyurethane aligners, such as Invisalign. Your dentist might also include some dental restoration or even veneers, depending on the condition of the teeth.

Most malocclusions are easily dealt with, and it may feel like a lengthy process when it is underway, the benefits of a healthy natural looking smile will make it all worthwhile. It is important to be aware of the condition of your teeth and to be as proactive as possible when it comes to alignment issues. The sooner the condition is detected the easier it can be corrected, and the longer the benefits will be experienced.