What Is Orthodontics?
Orthodontics is not just about straighter teeth. It also can improve your facial balance!
Most people associate orthodontics with the application of braces to correct crooked teeth in children and teens. Dr. Yim, however, treats a wide variety of conditions in people of all ages – from overbites to underbites; from children to adults.
Malocclusions, also known as “bad bites”, are usually inherited or acquired.
Acquired malocclusions are caused by:
- Trauma (including delayed weaning from thumb, finger, or pacifier sucking)
- Mouthbreathing (due to enlarged tonsils or adenoids, blocked nasal passages etc.)
- Premature loss of baby or adult teeth
Regardless of whether malocclusions are inherited or acquired, many of these problems affect not only alignment of the teeth but also facial development and appearance as well.
A poor bite does not DIRECTLY cause tooth decay, or periodontal disease. It may, however, make it difficult to brush and floss properly which increases the likelihood of dental disease.
Although a majority of the population have some type of malocclusion, not all people require or seek orthodontic treatment. For example, with or without a history of orthodontic treatment, 65% of adults develop crowded, crooked lower front teeth. This is a natural result of change over time and does not necessarily require orthodontic treatment.
Symptoms that may require orthodontics
If you or your child have any of the following symptoms, have your general or pediatric dentist evaluate whether a poor bite may be responsible:
- Permanent teeth coming in (erupting) out of their normal position;
- Problems with biting the cheek or roof of the mouth; or
- Difficulty chewing or difficulty aligning teeth;
- Facial muscle or jaw pain, or speech difficulties.
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