Orthodontics Problems

The rising popularity of braces in the U.S

December 5th, 2023

The embrace of dental braces has witnessed a significant surge in popularity,
with an estimated 50–70% of children in the US expected to wear braces before reaching adulthood.

A large percentage, 80% of American teens wear braces.
Several factors contribute to this growing trend,
reflecting a shift in societal perceptions and the evolving landscape of orthodontic care.

  1. Reduced Stigma:

One notable reason behind the increased acceptance of dental braces is the diminishing stigma associated with their appearance. What was once considered stigmatizing is now viewed as a positive step toward achieving a healthier and more aesthetically pleasing smile.

  1. Enhanced Comfort:

Advancements in orthodontic technology have paved the way for braces that are not only effective but also less painful and noticeably more comfortable. Patients can now undergo orthodontic treatment with minimized discomfort, encouraging a broader embrace of this transformative dental solution.

  1. Diverse Treatment Options:

The availability of diverse orthodontic options contributes significantly to the rise in popularity. Innovations like Invisalign and ClearCorrect offer clear, nearly invisible braces, providing individuals with discreet and effective alternatives to traditional braces. This expanded array of choices allows patients to select the treatment that aligns best with their lifestyle and preferences.

  1. Fashionable Appeal:

In a fascinating turn of events, dental braces have transcended their utilitarian purpose and found a place in modern fashion. Many contemporary men are incorporating braces into their wardrobes, adding a touch of vintage elegance to their overall look. This shift not only contributes to the normalization of braces but also turns them into a fashionable accessory.

Conclusion:

The increasing popularity of dental braces reflects not only advancements in orthodontic technology but also a changing societal perspective. As stigma diminishes, and comfort and aesthetic considerations take precedence, more individuals, including a growing number of teenagers, are choosing orthodontic solutions to achieve the smiles they desire. The evolving landscape of orthodontic care, coupled with fashionable appeal, positions dental braces as a transformative and widely embraced aspect of modern dental health.

Understanding TMJ Disorders in Children: Causes and Treatments

November 9th, 2023

TMJ disorders, also known as temporomandibular disorders (TMD), can affect children, causing a range of symptoms that impact their daily lives. This condition involves issues with the jaw joint and the muscles that control jaw movement. Recognizing the signs and understanding the causes are crucial for early intervention. In this article, we'll explore the symptoms, potential causes, and effective treatments for TMJ disorders in children, empowering parents with the knowledge to ensure their child's oral health and overall well-being.

TMJ disorders (also called temporomandibular disorders, or TMD) can cause:

? Symptoms:

✅ Pain in the head, neck, jaw, or face
✅ Problems chewing or biting
✅ Popping or clicking sounds when opening and closing the mouth
✅ Occasionally, a jaw that can lock open or lock shut

? What causes TMJ disorders?

✅ Bruxism (jaw clenching or teeth grinding)
✅ Stress: It can make a child clench their teeth.
✅ History of trauma
✅ Joint problems

? Treatments:

✅ Eat soft foods
✅ Ice packs or heat to the side of the face
✅ Doctor might apply a splint or biteplate to wear at night for reducing clenching
✅ Braces

TMJ disorders manifest through various symptoms, including pain in the head, neck, jaw, or face, difficulties in chewing or biting, and audible popping or clicking sounds during mouth movement. In some cases, a child may experience a jaw that can lock open or shut, further complicating everyday activities. Understanding the potential causes of TMJ disorders is essential for effective management.

Bruxism, or jaw clenching and teeth grinding, often plays a role, as does stress, which can lead to teeth clenching. A history of trauma and underlying joint problems can also contribute to the development of TMJ disorders in children. While there's no one-size-fits-all solution, various treatments, such as modifying the diet to include softer foods, applying ice packs or heat to the affected area, and, in some cases, using braces, can provide relief. Additionally, doctors might recommend wearing a splint or biteplate at night to reduce clenching and promote healing. Overall, early detection and a tailored treatment plan can make a significant difference in managing TMJ disorders in children.

The process of braces for kids and teens

October 31st, 2023

Braces can be a transformative journey for kids and teens, paving the way for a lifetime of healthy smiles.
In this article, we'll take you through the entire process, from the initial consultation to the moment those braces come off, and everything in between.

  1. The Initial Consultation:
    The process begins with a thorough examination by an orthodontist. This consultation helps determine if braces are needed and what type will be most effective.

  1. Choosing the Right Braces:
    Kids and teens can choose from traditional metal braces or more discreet options like ceramic braces or clear aligners.

  1. Custom Treatment Plans:
    Orthodontists create personalized treatment plans based on the patient's needs and goals.
    This includes a timeline for treatment.

  1. Getting the Braces On:
    This is the day braces become a reality. The orthodontist attaches brackets to the teeth and connects them with wires.

  1. Adjustment Appointments:
    Regular appointments are necessary for adjustments and to track progress.
    These visits ensure the braces are doing their job.

  1. Oral Hygiene and Diet:
    Kids and teens will need to pay extra attention to oral hygiene and follow dietary guidelines to protect their braces and teeth.

  1. Dealing with Discomfort:
    It's common to experience some discomfort after adjustments.
    Orthodontists can provide guidance on managing this.

  1. Braces Off:
    The day everyone looks forward to! When the orthodontist determines treatment is complete, the braces are removed, revealing a beautifully aligned smile.

  1. Retention Phase:
    Retainers are often needed to maintain the results and ensure the teeth don't shift back.

Braces for kids and teens are a step-by-step journey towards a healthier, more confident smile.
The process involves personalized treatment plans, regular adjustments, and diligent care.
While it requires some commitment, the results are well worth it, setting the stage for a lifetime of beautiful smiles.

Tongue Thrusting and the problems associated with it

October 11th, 2023

Tongue thrusting, often considered a normal developmental behavior in infants,
can become problematic if it persists into childhood and adulthood.
This blog delves into the concept of tongue thrusting, the issues it can lead to,
and the importance of recognizing and addressing this habit early on.

  1. Persistence Beyond Infancy:
    For some individuals, tongue thrusting persists into childhood and adulthood, causing various problems.

  1. Dental Issues:
    One of the primary concerns associated with tongue thrusting is dental misalignment.
    The constant pressure of the tongue against the teeth can lead to malocclusion,
    which is when the teeth don't meet correctly.

  1. Speech and Articulation Problems:
    Tongue thrusting can influence speech development,
    leading to issues with pronunciation and articulation.

  1. Swallowing and Breathing Difficulties:
    It can affect swallowing patterns and even result in open-mouth breathing,
    which has its own set of health problems.

  1. Orthodontic Treatment:
    Correcting the effects of tongue thrusting may require orthodontic treatment, such as braces.

  1. Early Intervention:
    Recognizing tongue thrusting early and addressing it can prevent many of these issues and lead to more successful treatment.

Tongue thrusting, though normal in infancy, can become problematic if it persists into later stages of life.
The consequences are not limited to dental issues but also extend to speech, swallowing,
and breathing problems.
Identifying and addressing tongue thrusting early on is essential to prevent these complications
and ensure better oral and overall health.

When should I get my child braces?

April 17th, 2023

The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) recommends that children have an initial orthodontic evaluation by the age of 7. This allows orthodontists to identify any potential orthodontic issues early on and address them before they become more severe.

It's essential to remember that braces may not be necessary for every child. The decision to get braces should be made on a case-by-case basis, depending on the individual child's orthodontic needs.

Orthodontic treatment may be necessary if your child has crooked teeth, overcrowding, gaps between teeth, or bite issues such as an overbite or underbite.

The timing of orthodontic treatment will depend on the individual child's growth and development. In some cases, early intervention may be necessary to guide jaw growth and tooth eruption. In other cases, treatment may be delayed until all the adult teeth have erupted.

It's important to work with an experienced orthodontist who can evaluate your child's orthodontic needs and recommend the best treatment plan.

Overall, the best time to get braces for your child will depend on their individual orthodontic needs. It's important to have an initial orthodontic evaluation at a young age and work with an experienced orthodontist to determine the best course of treatment.

The Benefits of power chain braces for teens

March 30th, 2023

Power chain braces, also known as a connected row of elastics that cover brackets,
they consist of small rubber bands that are used to help move the teeth into their correct position during orthodontic treatment.

Here are some potential benefits of power chain braces for teens:

  1. Can help to correct bite problems: Power chain braces can be used to help correct bite problems such as overbite, underbite, and crossbite.
  2. Can help to straighten teeth: Power chain braces can be used to help straighten teeth that are misaligned or crooked.

  1. Can be used in conjunction with other orthodontic treatments: Power chain braces can be used in conjunction with other orthodontic treatments such as traditional braces or clear aligners to help accelerate the movement of the teeth.
  2. Can be adjusted as needed: Power chain braces can be adjusted by the orthodontist as needed to help ensure that the teeth are moving in the desired direction.

Overall, power chain braces can be an effective treatment option for teens with bite problems or misaligned teeth. It's important to discuss the benefits and potential drawbacks of this treatment option with an orthodontist to determine if it is the right choice for your specific needs.

Do power chain braces hurt?

It is common for patients to experience some discomfort when power chain braces are first placed, as the teeth are being moved into a new position. However, this discomfort is generally mild and can be managed with over-the-counter pain medication as needed.

It is also normal for the teeth to feel sore for a few days after an adjustment to the power chain braces. This is a sign that the teeth are moving into the desired position and is generally not a cause for concern.

Power chain braces may cause some discomfort for some patients, but this discomfort is generally mild and can be managed with pain medication as needed. It is important to follow the instructions of your orthodontist and to notify them of any concerns you may have.

Looking for the best kids dentist near the Paterson, Passaic, and Union City areas?

We are here serving Paterson, Passaic, and Hudson NJ, and the surrounding communities, we offer comprehensive oral health services ranging from routine cleanings to emergency treatment. We are committed to creating a warm, welcoming environment to keep all members of the family comfortable in the office.
Paterson(973) 742-4200
Passaic ( 973) 574-1000
Union City(201) 325-8444
Dover (973) 891-4015

Find reviews and updates on Facebook, learn more about our practice online, or give us a call.

Pros and Cons of clear aligners for children and teens

March 14th, 2023

Clear aligners, also known as clear-aligner therapy, are a popular orthodontic treatment option that can be used to straighten teeth and correct bite problems.

Clear aligners can be a beneficial orthodontic treatment option for children because they are nearly invisible and do not have the same aesthetic drawbacks as traditional metal braces. This can help children feel more confident and less self-conscious during treatment. Additionally, clear aligners are removable, making it easier for children to maintain good oral hygiene and to eat a wide variety of foods without restrictions.

Clear aligners can effectively treat a variety of orthodontic issues, including overcrowding, spacing, and bite problems, and they may be a more comfortable and convenient option for some children compared to traditional braces. It is important to discuss with a dentist or orthodontist if clear aligners are a suitable treatment option for a child's specific orthodontic needs.

The pro's and Cons to Clear Aligners:

Pros:

Discreet: Clear aligners are virtually invisible, so they are less noticeable than traditional metal braces.

Clear Aligners angled to display their depth

Comfortable: Clear aligners are made of smooth, plastic material that is less likely to irritate the mouth compared to metal braces.

Customized: Clear aligners are made to fit the unique shape of each patient's teeth, which can lead to more precise and effective treatment.

Removable: Clear aligners can be removed for eating, drinking, and oral hygiene, which makes it easier to maintain good oral hygiene during treatment.

Cons:

May not be suitable for severe cases: Clear aligners may not be effective for treating more severe bite problems or misalignment.

Must be worn consistently: Clear aligners must be worn for at least 22 hours per day in order to be effective. This can be a challenge for some patients, especially children.

May cause temporary discomfort: Some patients may experience temporary discomfort when switching to a new set of aligners.

May be more expensive: Clear aligners may be more expensive than traditional braces.

Clear aligners can be an effective treatment option for many patients, but it is important to discuss the pros and cons with a dental professional to determine if they are the best option for your specific needs.

Looking for the best kids dentist near the Paterson, Passaic, and Union City areas?

We are here serving Paterson, Passaic, and Hudson NJ, and the surrounding communities, we offer comprehensive oral health services ranging from routine cleanings to emergency treatment. We are committed to creating a warm, welcoming environment to keep all members of the family comfortable in the office.
Paterson(973) 742-4200
Passaic ( 973) 574-1000
Union City(201) 325-8444
Dover (973) 891-4015

Find reviews and updates on Facebook, learn more about our practice online, or give us a call.

What are the health benefits of braces ?

August 3rd, 2022

What are the health benefits of braces? 
The first thing some may think of is cosmetics, but braces provide more than just great looking smiles.

1. Orthodontic Braces Help with Proportions
Ortho braces help with the following:

- Misalignment of teeth
- Overbites and underbites
- Overjet bites
- Periodontal problems ( elaborated below )
- Issues chewing and speaking
- Unmatched dental midlines

 

2. Orthodontic Braces Prevent Gum Disease
It's not a surprise that wearing braces can
be a factor in the cause of gum disease in
regards to the difficulty of brushing and flossing.
But without braces straightening of teeth,
one can find that food can set in between teeth.

Brushing and flossing consistently can help prevent
gum disease.

3. Orthodontic Braces Prevent Tooth Decay
Although braces can increase the risk of developing tooth decay,
braces can help to prevent tooth decay by straightening teeth.
Braces only become a factor in tooth decay development when
food particles become trapped under the braces and in between teeth
, and are not addressed.

Consult with the Orthodontist about dietary restrictions.
For example, The Orthodontist may explain why it is
imperative to limit the eating of candy.

 

4. Orthodontic Braces Prevent Cavities
If tooth enamel gets weak, tooth decay can occur.
Sugars and bacteria can combine to create plaque
which can create decay. If this occurs, cavities can
develop. As we spoke about previously,
braces can be a factor in prevention of tooth decay,
therefore leading to preventing cavities.

5. Orthodontic Braces Help with Digestion
You read that right.
Because braces help to create fewer gaps in
between teeth, chewing food can become easier
and leads to faster digestion.

 

6. Orthodontic Braces Prevent Injury
Braces can act as a shock absorber.
They can protect the teeth and lower jaw from
potentially breaking. Even though this is
the case, braces can get damaged upon impact.
If your child plays sports, consider a mouth guard
to protect their jaw, teeth, gums, and braces.

 

7. Orthodontic Braces Prevents Bone Erosion
To understand how braces can prevent bone erosion/loss,
we first should understand the causes of bone loss.

Alveolar Bone loss is irreversible.
Jawbones are essential for holding teeth
in place. While bone loss itself is not a disease, it can
be the result of an underlying issue.
Unfortunately many oral health conditions can cause

Here are the most common:

  • Bone loss
  • Tooth loss
  • Gum disease
  • Receding gums

 

8. Orthodontic Braces Help with Self-Esteem
Braces don't just help with straightening
teeth and correcting issues like malocclusion,
bruxism, and preventing the aforementioned
preventions. Braces are also cosmetic
and help to straighten and beautify great smiles.
This surely helps with confidence and self esteem.
Now, who wouldn't want to show off their awesome smile?

 

Looking for the best kids dentist near the Paterson, Passaic, and Union City areas?

We are here serving Paterson, Passaic, and Hudson NJ,
Dover NJ, and the surrounding communities.
We offer comprehensive oral health
services ranging from routine cleanings to emergency treatment.

We are committed to creating a warm, welcoming environment
to keep all members of the family comfortable in the office.
Paterson (973) 742-4200
Passaic  ( 973) 574-1000
Union City (201) 325-8444
Dover   (973) 891-4015

Find reviews and updates on Facebook,
learn more about our practice online,
or give us a call

 

 

How to relieve pain from braces ?

January 19th, 2022

What causes Pain?
It is unknown to what the exact causes are but there
may be other factors at play.

These particular methods can help ease pain

Changes in blood flow when braces apply pressure
Over the counter pain relievers can be helpful
in relieving pain due to the pressure associated with braces.
Topical products may also be helpful.
In addition, toothpaste, mouth rinse, and dental floss designed for sensitive teeth.
Oral anesthetics
Over-the-counter pain medicine
An ice pack
Cold ice water
Soft foods
Orthodontic wax
A warm rinse
A gum massage
Good dental hygiene
Brushing your teeth softly
Protect the braces: Many patients play sports.

Using a mouth guard can help to protect your teeth, your gums and the braces.
Eating soft foods can help to avoid further pain that occurs from
eating tougher foods. These may include soft vegetables, pasta, jello, soup.

  • Other causes for pain:
    When brackets and wires physically rub it can cause pain
    as tissue becomes rough.
    Wires poking in the back of the mouth

When this is occurring, please make sure to contact your orthodontist.
Doing this can help to avoid any infections or any other complications
as well as addressing the pain.

If you are one of our patients and you are experiencing this, please contact us
so we can address the issue. If you are looking for a new Orthodontist, contact us, we are happy to hear from you and help you with any concerns or any needs you may have.

Orthodontics Paterson NJ

August 14th, 2021

Children's general Dentist Location:

Smile Central Dental
Dentist, Paterson, NJ
Orthodontics, Paterson, NJ

 

Address:
140 Market Street
Paterson, NJ 07505
Orthodontics Center - 2nd Floor  (x 21 or x22 )
Children's General Dentistry - 3rd Floor
Treatment - 4th Floor

Phone: (973) 742-4200
Fax: (973) 742-4997

Paterson - Dental Office Manager: Cristal Jimenez
Paterson - Ortho Office Manager: Maria Gutierrez

 

About Our Practice
Smile Central Dental has always emphasized that outstanding people are the key to our success. Our strength and future growth depend on the contributions made by our team and each person within our organization. To ensure continued success, we feel it is important that all employees understand our policies and procedures. We hold them to that standard and they perform to the highest level. 
Our staff is dedicated to serving our community and providing the very best care.

 

Mission Statement
Smile Central Dental’s mission is to enhance the life of anyone we come in contact with. We accomplish this by educating both children and parents on the importance of their dental health, eradicating cavities on our beloved patients, and providing all members of our team with an opportunity to grow personally and professionally. All this while proudly serving the communities we are in that have given us the opportunity to do what we love.

 

 

My child's teeth don't seem to be straight

January 29th, 2021

Why some teeth do not come in straight?

It’s quite common for children to get adult teeth that are not straight.
The most common factors include extra teeth, missing teeth, large teeth, wide spacing, or inadequate spacing/small jaws. Habits like thumb sucking, tongue thrusting, premature loss of baby teeth, or a poor breathing airway caused by enlarged
adenoids aggravate the problem, resulting in crowded teeth and/or an abnormal bite.
Crooked Teeth

Regular visits to the dentist

The first primary/baby teeth start to come in at about 6 months of age. As soon as your child first gets their baby teeth, it’s important to get them on their first trip to the dentist. This allows the dentist to help ensure your child’s teeth stay clean,
and they can examine the inbound adult teeth.
Once the adult teeth start coming in, regular dental visits will allow your dentist to notice if some teeth are not coming in straight and they can refer you to an orthodontist or in our case, to our orthodontist department.
Dentist Visit

Habits

A children's general dentist can help you identify and correct bad habits that might cause teeth to not erupt straight. One of the most common examples is pacifiers. While it can be a great way to soothe a baby and even provide health benefits for infants, it can also
play a part in teeth erupting differently.
However, One should wean their child of the pacifier by the age of two, otherwise, it can cause teeth to grow incorrectly. Thumb sucking is another big instigator of crooked teeth.
A children's general dentist has extensive experience helping children change habits and they can work with you to create a plan for breaking them and know how to provide the right kind of motivation to cause change.

 

Keep an eye on growth

Sometimes when children start getting adult teeth, they erupt (break through the gums) in a crooked fashion.
While they might look quite crooked in the early stages of growth, they do most of the time end up aligned in a correct position by the time they’re fully grown.
So even if your child is getting teeth that are initially crooked, there’s no need to panic. Your active role during this period is to have regular visits to your child’s dentist so they can provide timely professional insights about any required treatments.

Visit the Orthodontist

If your child gets a reference for an orthodontist, then you should definitely get a consultation. The sooner they can visit the earlier they can begin treatment. Earlier treatment means it's easier and cheaper to fix the teeth and bite,
by correcting minor issues instead of waiting until they become major issues.
Around the age of 7, adult teeth can start to come in, and that is a good time for a visit to the orthodontist, who can assess if early treatments are necessary to prevent major treatments in the future.
Do you feel that your child's teeth seem to be not straight?
Do you feel they may need braces? Contact one of our offices near you.

To schedule a first consultation or visit, please contact us at
one of our locations:

1. 140 Market St, Paterson, NJ 07505
Children's Dentistry - 3rd Floor
Orthodontics Center - 2nd Floor
Treatment Center - 4th Floor
(973) 742-4200

2. 625 Main Ave
Passaic, NJ 07055
Children's Dentistry - 3rd Floor
(973) 574-1000

3. 3196 John Fitzgerald Kennedy Blvd
3rd Floor
Union City, NJ 07087
(201) 325-8444

 

Orthodontics For Teens

February 7th, 2020

Orthodontics for teens!

Braces, retainers, and everything else that you want to know about orthodontics!
You've just heard the three words that every teen dreads: “YOU NEED BRACES!”

Braces! What now?
Don't worry! Braces aren't nearly as scary as you may think. In fact, braces today come in a variety of styles, materials, and colors, making life with braces much easier, more comfortable, and even more stylish than in the past.

How long will I have to wear braces?
The amount of time it takes to treat your smile with braces depends on three key factors:

Early treatment — Early treatment allows orthodontists to monitor the growth of the jaw and recommend further orthodontic treatment if it becomes necessary. Not everybody receives early orthodontic treatment; in some cases, it may be recommended that a patient wait to receive treatment.

What needs correction — The amount of treatment needed to correct a problem will determine how long the process takes. Different patients react to treatments differently. While it may take one patient only 12 months to complete treatment, it may take another patient 24 months. Treatment times can vary depending on how quickly your body responds and how much work is needed to give you the show-stopping smile you expect.

YOU! — Your willingness to use the appliances your orthodontist gives you plays a major role in the length of time it takes to complete your treatment. Always remember to take care of your braces and appliances; this truly will help make your treatment shorter!

Braces Your Way!
Our practice offers a variety of braces, types, and styles, to choose from. Some common options include:

Ceramic braces
Invisible braces
Lingual braces
Traditional metal braces

Orthodontic braces are a big part of life for many people your age.
While braces may have had a bad reputation in the past, today's braces make it easy to look good and feel good!

Please contact our practice to schedule your next orthodontic checkup.

 

 

If you think your child requires dental braces to correct an alignment issue call (973) 742-4200 to schedule an appointment. ( Orthodontics ext: 21 )

Serving Paterson, NJ, and the surrounding communities, we offer comprehensive oral health services ranging from routine cleanings to emergency treatmentWe are committed to creating a warm, welcoming environment to keep all members of the family comfortable in the office.

Find reviews and updates on Facebook, learn more about our practice online, or give us a call (973) 742-4200

 

Common Orthodontic Problems

January 18th, 2020

Common Orthodontic Problems

The way your teeth align and meet together is known as occlusion. Typically, the upper teeth rest above the lower teeth when your jaw is closed and the top surfaces of the molars line up. However, teeth do not always match up. Malocclusion of the teeth is a misalignment problem that can lead to serious oral health complications.
The following problems all classify as Malocclusion of the teeth.

 

Common Orthodontics Problems

1. Underbite

An underbite, clinically called prognathism, is the malocclusion or
"bad bite" that happens when lower teeth overlap the upper teeth.
Severity can vary between a mild underbite, where the two rows of teeth almost meet;
and a situation wherein the teeth don't meet at all because the gap is so wide.
It can give the impression you're expressing emotion that isn't intended,
and it is, therefore, a common social issue that many are eager to eliminate for good.

The main cause of an underbite is a misalignment of the lower jaw, which is usually present at birth.

The problems associated with an underbite depend on how pronounced it is. If the gap is wide, it can cause:

Eating difficulties

Challenges with speaking
Chronic jaw or joint (TMJ) pain, as well as head- and earaches
Tooth decay from excessive wear of the tooth enamel
Chronic mouth breathing, halitosis, bacterial infections, sleep apnea, snoring, and other nighttime breathing difficulties.

 

2. Crossbite:

Is when some of the upper teeth close inside the lower teeth rather than the outside. This can form for a variety of reasons. Although a crossbite can be genetic, reasons such as prolonged use of a pacifier or thumb-sucking, delayed loss of baby teeth, and oversized tonsils or adenoids can be the source of a crossbite. Basically, the upper teeth close inside the lower teeth rather than the outside.

Thumb Sucking can create Malocclusion issues

3. Overbite:

It is also called "deep Bite", The upper teeth protrude further than the lower teeth and may completely cover them. Although this can hereditary, an overbite can be caused by a malformed jaw. Underdeveloped lower jaw or an overdeveloped upper jaw can result from the pressure of certain habits children may develop such as thumb-sucking and prolonged bottle-feeding or tongue-thrusting. Chewing on foreign objects can also form an overbite.

 

4. Overjet:

Overjet although mistaken for an overbite, refers to a horizontal issue while overbites refer to Vertical issues.
Overjet can be genetic, however, in many cases, it is due to childhood habits.
Much like the habits that cause Overbites, these habits include, thumb-sucking, tongue-thrusting, or prolonged bottle or pacifier and can cause the front teeth to splay out over time.

5.Upper Front Teeth Protrusion:

The protrusion of the upper front teeth often is caused by finger and thumb-sucking or tongue thrusting. It is commonly confused with an overbite. The pressure placed on the front teeth causes the teeth to become pushed forward.

Orthodontic treatment can be used to adjust the angle of the teeth and align with the lower teeth of the jaw.

 

6.Crowding:

Crowded teeth can make it difficult to brush and floss well which makes things easier for plaque, tartar, and other harmful bacteria to build up. This can lead to tooth decay and gum disease.

 

7. Spacing:

Spacing also called Diastema, refers to gaps or space between teeth which causes the teeth to not fit normally in the jaw. They are most noticeable in the two upper front teeth but can be from anywhere in the mouth. In children, gaps may disappear once their permanent teeth grow in. Some gaps happen to be large and are a cosmetic issue, but some gaps are small and barely noticeable.

 

Diastema can be caused by multiple factors and can be determined by genetics.
Jaw bone size and teeth size
Some cases include the size of the jaw bone and the size of teeth and results in teeth being spaced too far apart. An overgrowth of the tissue that borders the gum line and the teeth can also result in a gap.

Bad Habits
Bad habits can also be the culprit for spacing. The pressure that thumb-sucking involves can cause the teeth to pull forward.

Gum Disease
This infection damages the gums and tissue with inflammation and can lead to tooth loss and gaps between the teeth. Signs of gum disease include red and swollen gums, bone loss, loose teeth, and bleeding gums.

 

8. Openbite

An open bite occurs when the upper and lower teeth do not meet when the mouth is closed. When a person closes their jaw, the teeth will have a gap or opening.

What causes an open bite?
It can be passed down by genetics.
The problem normally corrects itself around the age of four and doesn’t persist into adulthood, however, a child may develop an opening in their bite when they have a mix of baby and permanent teeth and too much bone growth. A lisp can develop as well as other speech impediments.

Temporomandibular joint problems may also be the culprit. The Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is the hinge that allows your mouth to open.

Other causes are prolonged pacifier or thumb-sucking, tongue thrusting ( pushing the teeth with the tongue ). Tongue thrusting happens when you push the tongue through the teeth during swallowing or while speaking

Types of Open bites
Anterior open bite is defined as the front teeth not connecting properly when the back teeth have already made contact the opposite is a posterior open bite, where the back teeth don’t touch when the front teeth are closed.

An open bite can be noticed by the following:
Self-consciousness if your smile isn’t how you would like
A lisp or other speech impediments
Increased wear on the back teeth
Difficulty eating some foods

 

Treatment

Treating an open bite in early childhood increases the chances of being able to fix an open bite without surgery. Ask your dentist about the options available.

 

Age Treatment
0-4 Tongue thrusting and open bit are normal. No need for intervention.
Restrict thumb sucking and pacifiers.
7-10 A tongue crib can be worn if tongue thrusting persists.
A dentist can recognize if adult teeth are coming through in an open bite speech therapy for tongue thrusting can start.
11-17 Braces can be fitted to correct an open bite.
Tongue thrusting treatment and therapy will still be successful.
18+ Jaw surgery can happen now that growing has finished. Untreated open bites in adults nearly always need surgery.
Options can include braces and Invisalign. Veneers become an option at this age too.

 

Open Bite braces will pull teeth back from protruding forward and can place them into proper alignment. The course of treatment can take anywhere from six months to two years and will need to be followed up with retainers. The job of the retainers is to make sure that the teeth do not go back to their old position.

Dentist checkup

Treatment for tongue thrusting

Tongue therapy:
Exercises for the tongue and therapy can be offered through a speech therapist.

Appliances like a tongue crib:
A bit like a retainer, a tongue cradle or crib attaches to your molars and puts a barrier across your mouth so the tongue can’t push forwards.

If a person stops the habit of tongue thrusting, it will not correct the misalignment, but it will make sure the bite problem won’t get worse or relapse after braces treatment is finished.

9. Dental Midlines not Matched

There are two midlines of the teeth between your two upper front incisors and the second between the two bottom center teeth. These lines should form one straight midline all through the center. When these lines do not line up it is clear to see there is a misalignment with the teeth and jaw or tooth size discrepancy.

 

How is Malocclusion Diagnosed?

We typically break this down in three phases.

 

The planning Phase:

Check the mouth and teeth.
ask questions about your child's past health.
X-rays will be taken.
photographs of the face and teeth may be taken.
A plaster model of the teeth may be made.

The Orthodontist will make a diagnosis using the diagnostic tools mentioned above. They will develop a customized treatment and recommend custom devices for the gentle movement of the teeth into proper alignment.

 

Phase 2: Development/Active Phase

This is the part where you are wearing braces or aligners.

Types of braces that may be used:
Traditional fixed braces: individual dental brackets connected by an archwire.
Lingual braces: These are also fixed but fit on the inside of the teeth to make them less visible.

During this phase, you will need to regularly see your orthodontist. The number of times you need to see your orthodontist will greatly depend on the kind of treatment you're receiving and the attributes of your orthodontic issues.

 

Phase 3: Retention Phase

A very crucial part of orthodontic care is the retention phase.
When the teeth have been correctly aligned, removable devices and fixed braces will be removed.
Your orthodontist will create retainers for you to wear after your braces are removed.
Retainers prevent your teeth from shifting back to their pre-treatment positions.

Your orthodontist will advise you how long you need to wear your retainers.

 

How Is a Malocclusion of the Teeth Treated?

Most people with mild malocclusion will not require any treatment. However, your dentist may refer you to an orthodontist if your malocclusion is severe
Depending on your type of malocclusion, your orthodontist may recommend various treatments. These can include:

 

braces to correct the position of the teeth
removal of teeth to correct overcrowding
reshaping, bonding, or capping of teeth
surgery to reshape or shorten the jaw
wires or plates to stabilize the jaw bone

 

 

How Can Malocclusion Be Prevented?

Most cases of Malocclusion are hereditary so preventing it may be difficult.
Early detection of malocclusion will cut down the length and severity of the disorder. Start your child's visits at 12 months old and keep up with regular checkups twice a year. For young children, limit pacifier and bottle use to help reduce changes in the development of the jaw.

 

An Overview:

The treatment of malocclusion of teeth in children typically results in the correction of the problem. The duration of treatment can be reduced with early treatment in childhood and can also be less expensive. Treating malocclusion early will result in a better outcome and faster.

 

If you think your child requires dental braces to correct an alignment issue call (973) 742-4200 to schedule an appointment. ( Orthodontics ext: 21 )

Serving Paterson, NJ, and the surrounding communities, we offer comprehensive oral health services ranging from routine cleanings to emergency treatment. We are committed to creating a warm, welcoming environment to keep all members of the family comfortable in the office.

Find reviews and updates on Facebook, learn more about our practice online, or give us a call (973) 742-4200

 

Written by RP, CRM, SCD

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