What are the causes of jaw misalignment. How can orthodontics help correct jaw alignment issues. When is jaw surgery necessary for severe malocclusion. What are the non-surgical options for treating a misaligned jaw. How does jaw misalignment impact oral health and daily life. What are effective ways to maintain oral hygiene with a misaligned jaw.

Understanding Jaw Misalignment and Its Impact

Jaw misalignment, also known as malocclusion, is a condition where the upper and lower jaws do not align properly when biting down. This misalignment can lead to various issues, including pain, cosmetic concerns, difficulty chewing or speaking, temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD), increased risk for dental problems, and even sleep apnea.

There are several types of jaw misalignment:

• Underbite: The lower jaw protrudes beyond the upper jaw
• Overbite: The upper jaw extends too far over the lower jaw
• Overjet: The upper front teeth project too far forward

What causes jaw misalignment? The primary factors include:

1. Injuries to the head, face, or mouth
2. Developmental problems during growth
3. Congenital conditions present at birth

Non-Surgical Treatment Options for Jaw Misalignment

Can jaw alignment be corrected without surgery? In many cases, yes. Orthodontic treatments are often the first line of defense against jaw misalignment. These non-invasive methods can effectively address mild to moderate cases of malocclusion.

Braces and Orthodontic Appliances

Traditional braces remain one of the most common and effective treatments for jaw misalignment. How do braces work to correct jaw alignment? They apply consistent pressure over time to gradually move teeth and reshape the jaw. Other orthodontic appliances that may be recommended include:

• Headgear braces: External straps around the head supplement traditional braces
• Reverse pull face mask: Corrects underbite using braces with external head straps
• Upper jaw expander: A wireframe device that widens the palate to correct overbite

The choice of orthodontic treatment depends on the specific type and severity of the misalignment. An orthodontist will assess your individual case and recommend the most suitable option.

Cosmetic Dentistry for Mild Jaw Misalignment

In cases where jaw misalignment is mild and primarily affects appearance, cosmetic dentistry may offer suitable solutions. While these treatments don’t address the underlying structural issues, they can improve the visual aspects of misalignment.

What cosmetic procedures can help with jaw misalignment?

• Veneers: Thin shells of porcelain bonded to the front of teeth
• Dental bonding: Application of tooth-colored resin to reshape teeth
• Crowns: Custom-made caps that cover and reshape teeth

These cosmetic options are particularly appealing for individuals with mild alignment issues or those primarily concerned with the aesthetic impact of their misalignment.

Surgical Interventions for Severe Jaw Misalignment

When non-surgical treatments are insufficient, orthognathic surgery may be necessary. This procedure involves repositioning the upper or lower jaw to achieve proper alignment.

When is jaw surgery recommended? Typically, surgery is considered in cases of severe misalignment or when orthodontic treatments alone cannot achieve the desired results. Orthognathic surgery is often combined with orthodontic treatment for optimal outcomes.

The Jaw Surgery Process

What does jaw alignment surgery entail? The procedure typically involves:

1. Preoperative orthodontic treatment to prepare the teeth
2. Surgical repositioning of the jaw under general anesthesia
3. Postoperative orthodontic treatment to fine-tune the alignment

Recovery from jaw surgery is generally quicker than many patients expect. Most individuals require only a one-night hospital stay followed by about a week of rest at home. In most cases, wiring the jaw shut is not necessary, although it may be recommended in severe cases.

Living with Jaw Misalignment: Strategies for Management

For those living with jaw misalignment, maintaining proper oral hygiene and managing symptoms are crucial. How can you effectively care for your teeth with a misaligned jaw?

• Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and brush gently twice daily
• Clean between teeth daily with floss, interdental brushes, or water flossers
• Rinse with an antiseptic mouthwash to reduce bacteria
• Maintain a balanced diet low in sugary and acidic foods
• Schedule regular dental check-ups at least every six months

Managing pain and discomfort associated with jaw misalignment may involve:

• Applying hot or cold compresses to the jaw area
• Practicing jaw exercises recommended by a dental professional
• Using over-the-counter pain relievers as advised by a healthcare provider
• Wearing a night guard to prevent teeth grinding during sleep

The Impact of Jaw Misalignment on Overall Health

Jaw misalignment can have far-reaching effects beyond oral health. How does malocclusion impact overall well-being?

• Chronic headaches or migraines due to jaw tension
• Neck and shoulder pain from compensating for jaw position
• Digestive issues resulting from improper chewing
• Sleep disturbances, including sleep apnea
• Psychological effects, such as decreased self-confidence

Understanding these potential impacts underscores the importance of addressing jaw misalignment promptly and effectively.

Preventive Measures and Early Intervention

While some causes of jaw misalignment are unavoidable, there are steps that can be taken to prevent or minimize its development, especially in children.

What preventive measures can help maintain proper jaw alignment?

• Encouraging proper oral habits from a young age, such as avoiding thumb-sucking
• Addressing teeth grinding or clenching early on
• Maintaining regular dental check-ups to monitor jaw development
• Seeking early orthodontic evaluation, typically around age 7
• Treating airway issues that may affect jaw growth, such as enlarged tonsils

Early intervention can often prevent minor alignment issues from progressing into more severe problems that require extensive treatment later in life.

Advances in Jaw Alignment Technology and Treatment

The field of orthodontics and jaw alignment is continually evolving, with new technologies and treatments emerging to provide more effective and less invasive options for patients.

What are some cutting-edge approaches to jaw alignment?

• 3D imaging and computer-aided treatment planning for more precise diagnostics
• Clear aligner systems that offer a less visible alternative to traditional braces
• Accelerated orthodontics techniques that can reduce treatment time
• Robotic-assisted surgery for improved precision in orthognathic procedures
• Stem cell therapies being researched for jaw bone regeneration

These advancements are making jaw alignment treatments more accessible, comfortable, and effective for patients of all ages.

The Role of Interdisciplinary Care

Effective treatment of jaw misalignment often requires a team approach. Who might be involved in your jaw alignment treatment?

• General dentists for initial assessment and ongoing oral health care
• Orthodontists for specialized alignment treatments
• Oral and maxillofacial surgeons for surgical interventions
• Speech therapists to address any speech issues related to misalignment
• Physical therapists for jaw exercises and pain management

This collaborative approach ensures that all aspects of jaw misalignment are addressed, from functional concerns to aesthetic considerations.

Long-Term Outlook and Maintenance After Treatment

Successfully treating jaw misalignment is not the end of the journey. Maintaining the results of treatment requires ongoing care and attention.

What steps are necessary for long-term maintenance of jaw alignment?

• Wearing retainers as prescribed after orthodontic treatment
• Attending regular follow-up appointments with your dental professional
• Maintaining excellent oral hygiene to prevent future dental issues
• Being mindful of habits that could affect jaw alignment, such as teeth grinding
• Addressing any signs of relapse promptly

With proper care and maintenance, the results of jaw alignment treatment can be long-lasting, providing improved oral health and quality of life for years to come.

Psychological Aspects of Jaw Misalignment and Treatment

The impact of jaw misalignment extends beyond physical health, often affecting an individual’s self-esteem and social interactions. How does addressing jaw alignment issues benefit mental health?

• Improved self-confidence from enhanced facial aesthetics
• Reduced social anxiety related to appearance or speech difficulties
• Better overall quality of life due to reduced pain and improved function
• Increased willingness to smile and engage in social situations

Many patients report significant improvements in their overall well-being and social interactions following successful jaw alignment treatment.

Nutritional Considerations for Individuals with Jaw Misalignment

Jaw misalignment can significantly impact an individual’s ability to eat and obtain proper nutrition. What dietary adjustments might be necessary for those with malocclusion?

• Choosing softer foods that require less chewing
• Cutting food into smaller pieces to ease consumption
• Ensuring adequate intake of nutrients through alternative sources if certain foods are difficult to eat
• Working with a nutritionist to develop a balanced diet plan that accommodates jaw limitations

Proper nutrition is crucial not only for overall health but also for supporting the healing process during and after jaw alignment treatment.

The Economic Impact of Jaw Misalignment

The costs associated with jaw misalignment extend beyond the immediate expenses of treatment. What are the long-term economic considerations of malocclusion?

• Potential for increased dental care costs due to higher risk of oral health issues
• Expenses related to managing chronic pain or associated conditions
• Possible impact on work productivity due to pain or treatment requirements
• Long-term savings from addressing alignment issues early rather than allowing them to progress

While the initial investment in jaw alignment treatment may seem significant, it often results in substantial long-term savings and improved quality of life.

The Future of Jaw Alignment Research and Treatment

As our understanding of jaw misalignment continues to evolve, new avenues for research and treatment are emerging. What future developments can we anticipate in the field of jaw alignment?

• Genetic studies to better understand hereditary factors in jaw misalignment
• Development of biocompatible materials for more effective and comfortable orthodontic appliances
• Advancements in 3D printing technology for custom-made alignment devices
• Integration of artificial intelligence in treatment planning and progress monitoring
• Research into non-invasive techniques for stimulating jaw bone growth and remodeling

These ongoing research efforts promise to bring even more effective, personalized, and minimally invasive treatment options for individuals with jaw misalignment in the future.

Patient Education and Empowerment

Empowering patients with knowledge about their condition and treatment options is crucial for successful outcomes. How can individuals become more informed about jaw alignment issues?

• Engaging in open communication with dental professionals
• Utilizing reputable online resources for additional information
• Participating in support groups or forums for those with similar conditions
• Asking questions and seeking clarification about treatment plans and expectations
• Staying informed about new developments in jaw alignment treatment

An informed and engaged patient is more likely to adhere to treatment protocols and achieve optimal results in their jaw alignment journey.

Misaligned Jaw And Treatment Options

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You might be aware that misaligned teeth can cause bite and dental health issues, but did you know jaw alignment problems can do the same? Not to worry, we’re here to cover what you can do to correct jaw alignment without surgery, when surgery is needed, what causes misalignment, and how to live with it.

Understanding Jaw Misalignment

An important aspect of your mouth’s long-term health is often unappreciated: the ability of your upper and lower jaws to align into a proper bite. If your bite does not align well, this is known as a malocclusion and can contribute to various problems.

Malocclusions may lead to:

• Pain
• Cosmetic issues
• Difficulty chewing or speaking
• Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD)
• Increased risk for dental problems
• Sleep apnea

This misalignment can result from two main sources: your teeth and your jaw. Malocclusion of your teeth is typically treated with orthodontic interventions (like braces), while jaw alignment remedies are more varied. Misalignment of your jaw can lead to your top or bottom row of teeth to mismatch when biting down, in either an underbite, overbite, or overjet.

Causes of a misaligned jaw may include:

• An injury to your head, face, or mouth
• Developmental problems
• A congenital condition (something you’re born with)

Treatment of a misaligned jaw will depend on its severity and cause, along with your health history and cosmetic concerns. Sometimes, no treatment is required at all if your symptoms are mild or absent. We’ll dive into some of the most common treatments below, including how to fix a crooked jaw without surgery.

Orthodontics

The appropriate orthodontic solution to your jaw alignment issues varies based on its presentation and severity. While your regular dental professional is appropriate for many solutions, a specialist known as an orthodontist will often be useful to address your jaw problems.

To help correct jaw misalignment, your dental professional may recommend:

• Braces (adjusting your bite through pressure over time in the form of brackets bonded to your teeth and attached to archwires)
• Headgear braces (adjusting your jaw with braces that are supplemented by straps fixed outside of the mouth around your head)
• Reverse pull face mask (correcting underbite using braces fixed to your upper back teeth supplemented by straps fixed outside of the mouth around your head)
• Upper jaw expander (correcting overbite using a wireframe device that fits across the palate of your mouth and widens it)

Ultimately, it’s important to remember that only your dental professional knows your specific health history and needs, so it’s best to follow their recommendation and insight for orthodontic treatment.

Cosmetic Dentistry

If your misalignment symptoms and severity are mild, cosmetic options may be a good match for your needs. While adjusting the appearance of your teeth won’t fix an underlying jaw alignment problem, it can help you feel better about your smile.

Cosmetic fixes are especially appealing if your alignment issues are mild or if you’re mostly bothered by the changes it causes to your appearance.

Jaw Surgery

In some severe cases, your dental professional may recommend orthognathic surgery of your jaw. This procedure involves adjusting or repositioning your upper or lower jaw and is often used in combination with orthodontic correction like braces.

If this concerns you, rest assured that the recovery time for orthognathic surgery is generally short. You’ll typically require a night in the hospital, followed by a week of time off from work or school. In most cases, you will not need to have your mouth wired shut, but this is recommended in some severe cases.

Living With Jaw Misalignment

Knowing how to address your jaw misalignment and associated symptoms will depend on your understanding of its underlying cause. For this reason, it’s smart to receive an expert diagnosis from your dental professional. Regardless of the cause, one challenge of living with an improperly aligned bite is ensuring that you properly care for and clean your smile.

Tips for maintaining proper oral hygiene include:

• Gently brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes with a soft-bristled toothbrush
• Clean between your teeth once a day with floss, an interdental brush, or a flossing device
• Rinse regularly with mouthwash or antiseptic mouthrinse
• Eat a balanced, healthy diet that’s low in sugary and acidic foods and drinks
• Visit your dental professional at least every six months

It’s good to keep in mind that jaw alignment varies greatly in severity, presentation, and the underlying cause. Likewise, proper treatment will vary based on these factors and if you’re interested in cosmetic options for the sake of your appearance. You’ve made a great choice to read up on jaw alignment, why treating it is a good idea, and understanding what your options are.

This article is intended to promote understanding of and knowledge about general oral health topics. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your dentist or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment.

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How to Fix a Misaligned or Crooked Jaw

Last Modified:January 19, 2023

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Clinical content featured by Byte is reviewed and fact-checked by a licensed dentist or orthodontist to help ensure clinical accuracy.

We follow strict sourcing guidelines and each page contains a full list of sources for complete transparency.

Table of Contents

1. Key Facts
2. Misaligned Jaw Appearance
3. What Causes a Crooked Jaw?
4. Treatment Options
5. Is Treatment Mandatory?
6. Aligners for Mild Cases
7. Misaligned Jaw FAQs
8. References

A misaligned or crooked jaw can affect one’s appearance, self-esteem, and oral and overall health. Jaw issues are a common cause of malocclusion, or teeth misalignment. Jaw misalignment may be a factor in malocclusion conditions that include underbite, overbite, crossbite, and open bite. 

Most cases of jaw misalignment are caused by genetics. Other causes may include injury, congenital conditions, developmental problems, TMJ and tooth grinding, missing teeth, and childhood oral habits like pacifier use and thumb sucking. 

Treatment for a misaligned jaw may include lost tooth replacement, braces, orthodontic devices like headgear and palatal expanders, and jaw (orthognathic) surgery. For the treatment of mild-to-moderate jaw misalignment and related malocclusion, clear removable aligners may also be a convenient option.

Key Facts about a Misaligned Jaw

• A misaligned jaw occurs when the upper and lower jaw don’t line up to a correct bite when closed. This can cause (or be caused by) malocclusion, or teeth misalignment. Conditions related to a misaligned jaw include overbite, underbite, crossbite, and open bite.
• Jaw misalignment is usually diagnosed and treated by an orthodontist. In severe cases, a jaw specialist or surgeon may be needed.
• Jaw misalignment can lead to health problems that include tooth decay, gum disease, jaw pain, TMJ, sleep disorders, headaches, and difficulty speaking and eating. A crooked jaw can also lower self-esteem and affect mental health. 
• Jaw misalignment may be treated with surgery, orthodontic devices like headgear and palatal expanders, braces, or clear aligners.

What does a Misaligned Jaw Look Like?

How a misaligned jaw looks will vary greatly depending on the type of jaw misalignment and how severe the problem is.  

Some cases of crooked jaw are very minor and not noticeable. Others are very prominent and have a serious impact on appearance. 

In some cases, the upper jaw sits too far forward of the lower jaw. This is often related to overbite malocclusion conditions (class 2 malocclusions), including “buck teeth” or overjet teeth, in which the front teeth seem to protrude out over the lower teeth.

When the lower jaw juts in front of the upper jaw, it may be related to underbite malocclusions (class 3 malocclusions), in which the lower teeth and jaw overlap the upper teeth and jaw.

What Causes a Crooked Jaw?

Many jaw conditions are hereditary. Most cases of crooked jaw are simply due to genetics.

Jaw misalignment can also be caused by the following:

• Injury or trauma to the mouth, teeth, or jaw
• Prolonged thumb sucking or pacifier use as a child, especially if continued after permanent teeth came in
• Teeth grinding
• Tongue thrusting
• TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorders
• Missing teeth that have caused remaining teeth to shift
• Congenital problems
• Developmental disorders

Treatment for a Misaligned Jaw Varies by Age

Treatment for a misaligned jaw may be very different for children than it is for adults.

Children and adolescents have jaws that are still developing. Therefore, their jaws are easier to influence with orthodontic devices and appliances.

Adults have developed (formed) jaws. Orthodontic devices may still be used in treatment, but they may be less effective and take longer.

Crooked Jaw Treatment for Growing Kids

When dealing with the still-forming jaws of children and adolescents, orthodontists may try to change the course of jaw development in order to correct a problematic bite. Devices like retainers, headgear (a banded device with wiring inside and outside of the mouth), and palatal expanders (which sit on the roof of the mouth and are expanded to widen the jaw) may be used. Retainers and palatal expanders may even be fixed to the mouth for maximum effectiveness.

Braces and aligners are also used to correct jaw issues and their related teeth misalignment. In severe cases, jaw surgery may be required.

Crooked Jaw Treatment for Adults

Because the jaws of adults are already formed and harder to manipulate, orthodontic devices and appliances are less likely to be effective in treating very severe cases of jaw misalignment. Orthognathic (jaw) surgery may be the only option in these cases.

For less severe cases, braces and clear aligners may be used to correct a jaw misalignment.

For braces, brackets are cemented to the teeth and connected by wires. These wires are periodically tightened to apply pressure to reposition the teeth and jaw.

Orthodontic devices like palatal expanders are sometimes used along with braces.

Clear aligners also apply pressure to move the teeth and jaw into place, but they do it in a different way. Rather than being fixed to the teeth, aligners are removable, and they fit over teeth. They mimic your current bite but include subtle pressure points and changes that will shift your teeth. 

With aligner treatment, you’ll transition through a series of aligner trays, wearing each one for a week or two before moving on to the next. Each tray gradually moves you closer to your ideal alignment. After your last tray, your smile will be ready.

Is Treatment Mandatory?

An orthodontist will be able to tell you how severe your jaw misalignment is and how imperative treatment is. However, it’s important to remember that any jaw misalignment could lead to teeth misalignment and jaw strain. If left untreated, the problem may only get worse and harder to correct.

Aligners: A Great Option for Mild Cases

For mild-to-moderate cases of jaw misalignment, clear aligners may have many advantages over other types of treatment. Aligners are virtually invisible and removable, so they can be taken out to eat and perform your daily oral hygiene routine. Most aligners work faster than braces, with an average treatment time of 4–6 months.

Misaligned Jaw Frequently Asked Questions

How can I straighten my misaligned jaw?

Depending on how severe your jaw misalignment is, treatment options may include surgery, orthodontic appliances, braces, or aligners. If your misalignment is mild or moderate, you can take Byte’s 30-second assessment or order an at-home impression kit to find out if aligners would work for you (if you’re not a candidate for aligners, Byte will refund you).

What causes a misaligned jaw?

Most misaligned jaws are caused by genetics and cannot be prevented. Sometimes misaligned jaws are caused by other issues, including teeth grinding, childhood thumb sucking and pacifier use, trauma and injury, teeth misalignment, missing teeth, congenital problems, and developmental issues.

How do I know if my jaw is out of alignment?

In many cases, a misaligned jaw is visible. The upper jaw may appear to sit too far in front of the lower teeth, or the lower jaw may protrude forward. Other symptoms may include jaw pain, crooked or misaligned teeth, and speech and eating problems. A dentist will be able to identify a jaw misalignment and refer you to an orthodontist if needed.

Can you fix an uneven jaw without surgery?

In many cases, yes. While very serious cases of jaw misalignment will need surgery to be corrected, it’s more common that the condition can be treated with other treatments or a combination of other treatments, including tooth replacement, orthodontic devices, braces, and clear aligners.

Can an uneven jaw fix itself?

While it’s possible that the jaw might correct itself over time, it’s not likely, and it’s less common in adulthood.

References

Misaligned Jaw and Treatment Options. (January 2023). Colgate. Date fetched: January 17, 2023.

Malocclusion. (November 2021). Cleveland Clinic. Date fetched: December 4, 2022.

7 Common Bite Problems in Children and Adults. American Association of Orthodontists. Date fetched: December 4, 2022.

Malocclusion. Boston Children’s Hospital. Date fetched: December 4, 2022.

Braces. MouthHealthy by the American Dental Association. Date fetched: December 4, 2022.

Disclaimer: This article is intended to promote understanding of and knowledge about general oral health topics. It is not intended to serve as dental or other professional health advice and is not intended to be used for diagnosis or treatment of any condition or symptom. You should consult a dentist or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment.

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Further Reading

Normal occlusion – the correct arrangement of teeth with a perfect occlusion

Contents:

1. 1. Signs of a correct occlusion of teeth
2. 2. Bite anomalies
3. 3. Causes of malocclusion
4. 4. Ways to correct an overbite
5. 5. Output

Normal bite is an important component of the correct functioning of the dentition. If it is violated, the quality of life worsens, the teeth and the temporomandibular joint suffer, and the appearance deteriorates. The ideal occlusion of the teeth should meet the following parameters:

• – there are no pronounced gaps between the teeth;
• – the teeth of the upper row are in symmetrical contact with the teeth of the lower row;
• – the top row overlaps the bottom row by 1/3 when closed;
• – the center of the jaws coincides with the median line of the face;
• – incisors and canines form a perfect arcuate line without gaps and protrusions.

According to statistics, malocclusion occurs in more than 70% of people on the planet.

Signs of correct occlusion of teeth

To understand what a correct occlusion should be in a person, you need to know about several types of tooth alignment that are considered normal. These include:

1. 1. Orthognathic. The top row overlaps the bottom row by 30%.
2. 2. Opistognathic. The teeth are slightly tilted towards the mouth.
3. 3. Straight. The cutting edges of the upper teeth touch the cutting edges of the lower teeth.
4. 4. Biprognathic. The teeth are slightly directed towards the vestibule of the mouth.
5. 5. Progenic. The lower dentition is slightly pushed forward.

If any of the listed types of normal bite is detected, no correction is required. This arrangement does not lead to negative consequences and does not affect the appearance of a person.

Malocclusion

If the position of the teeth does not correspond to any of the above options, then an abnormal bite should be suspected. There are several types of pathological bite:

1. 1. Open. In the anterior or lateral areas of the dentition, when closing, the teeth do not touch each other.
2. 2. Prognathic (distal). The upper row protrudes above the lower due to underdevelopment of the lower jaw or excessive growth of the upper.
3. 3. Deep. The top row overlaps the bottom row by more than 50%.
4. 4. Mesial. The lower dentition overlaps the upper due to excessive growth of the lower jaw or insufficient development of the upper.
5. 5. Cross. The teeth intersect in one or more zones like scissors. It can be bilateral or unilateral.
6. 6. Reducing. Occurs in the absence or pathological abrasion of teeth.

To know what is a normal bite of teeth and what is considered an anomaly is necessary for timely access to a doctor and correction.

Reasons for the development of malocclusion

The reasons for the violation of the correct position of the teeth can be both congenital and acquired. The main risk factors for the formation of malocclusion:

• • – genetic predisposition;
  • – improper breastfeeding or use of bottles;
  • – sucking on a pacifier, fingers or other object in infancy;
  • – congenital developmental anomalies;
  • – mouth breathing in diseases of the respiratory system;
  • – the absence in the diet of children of sufficient solid food according to age;
  • – premature or late change of milk teeth;
  • – lack of calcium and / or fluorine in the body;
  • – injuries of the dentition;
  • – pronounced caries with destruction and loss of teeth;
  • – lack of space on the jaw for eruption of eights;
  • – Incorrectly fitted or unsuitable prostheses in adults.

Regardless of the reasons, each patient needs to undergo bite correction to restore the functionality of the dentition.

Overbite Correction

Pathological bite treatment is prescribed by an orthodontic doctor. You need to contact him as early as possible, since it is much easier to restore the normal arrangement of teeth in childhood. The method of correction depends on the age, type of pathology, individual characteristics of the patient.

The following types of treatment are used:

1. 1. Trainers, orthodontic plates and other devices for children. They allow you to set the correct growth of the teeth, contribute to the adequate development of the jaws and the muscular frame.
2. 2. Bracket systems. Fixed structures that are used only for permanent teeth. Helps move teeth in the right direction.
3. 3. Aligners. Removable designs, which are transparent caps. Bite correction occurs by gently shifting the teeth when changing one set of caps to another.
4. 4. Surgical treatment. It is used in the absence of effectiveness from conservative methods.

Our clinic uses only proven technologies for bite correction. Doctors use high-quality and durable braces, aligners from well-known manufacturers, comfortable trainers and other devices.

An example of a corrected bite with braces – photo

Conclusion

Everyone should know what kind of bite a person has in order to respond to the problem in a timely manner. Ignoring the situation leads to many unpleasant consequences, for example, impaired diction, pathological abrasion of enamel, impaired facial symmetry, dysfunction of the temporomandibular joint, and others.

When correcting the bite, you must strictly follow the recommendations of the orthodontist. Non-compliance with prescriptions, interruption of treatment not only slow down the recovery of the bite, but can also aggravate the situation. Make an appointment at Leonid Gorbunov’s orthodontic studio to check your bite and effectively correct it.

Author of the publication:

Bazyrova Alina Andreevna

Orthodontist

Last update: 08/26/2021

Teeth bite correct and incorrect

The concept of correct bite in orthodontic dentistry determines the position of the teeth of the upper and lower jaws relative to each other, which is optimal for both the appearance and well-being of a person. Many people are lucky to be born with a physiologically correct bite and not worry about the development of related problems. Other patients have dental pathologies that require orthodontic treatment – not only for the sake of beauty, but also because such pathologies are fraught with various dental diseases.

As a rule, an incorrect bite of the teeth is noticeable from the outside, even without additional examinations, while the correct one, on the contrary, looks harmonious and aesthetically unobtrusive. But, in addition to this, there are some common features, on the basis of which the correct bite is determined.

What does a correct bite look like?

• All 28 or 32 teeth are present in the mouth (with the exception of “eights” or “wisdom teeth”, the presence or absence of which does not affect the determination of the correct bite. The bite can be correct with or without them).

• The upper dentition overlaps the lower one by a third, the teeth of the lower jaw are slightly tilted inward, towards the tongue.

• The jaws close symmetrically: if you conditionally divide the face in full face with a vertical line, then it will pass exactly between the front incisors.

• There are no gaps between the teeth, there are no cracks or chips in the teeth.

• The chewing teeth of the upper and lower jaws tightly close to each other, do not go one after the other, and the teeth of the lower row exactly correspond to the teeth of the same name in the upper row.

• The person can open their mouth wide without pain, has no restriction on solid food, and chews it easily. He has good diction, no tension during nasal breathing, no neurological problems caused by excessive stress on the temporomandibular joint (headaches, neck pain, osteochondrosis, bruxism).

Physiologically correct bite is, first of all, a healthy state and arrangement of teeth. With all this, the correct bite may not be aesthetically flawless and ideal from the point of view of orthodontics – there are several varieties and borderline bite conditions that are also considered correct.

Types of correct bite

Orthognathic bite – the best in the position of closing teeth, and few can boast of it. It fully complies with the above criteria of the orthodontic ideal: the upper dentition overlaps the lower one by 1/3, the teeth are even, do not overlap, without diastemas and cracks.

Progenic occlusion – The lower jaw is slightly protruding, but not yet an anomaly, and the normal functioning of the teeth and the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is not impaired.

Level bite – the jaws are parallel to each other, and the front incisors of the upper and lower rows are in contact with the cutting edges. This position of the teeth is also considered natural, but it is fraught with premature abrasion of the incisors, on which there is an increased load.

Biprognathic occlusion Both jaws are slightly pushed forward and the teeth are slightly tilted towards the lips. The opposite example is a rare opistognathic bite, in which both dentitions are tilted inward. Visually, such a slight irregularity is noticeable only when viewed in profile.

Correct occlusion of human teeth: photo

Orthognathic bite:

Progenic bite:

Level bite:

Biprognathic bite:

Important! In the absence of one or more teeth, even the most correct bite is displaced if a prosthesis or implant is not urgently put in its place.