Dentists and orthodontists must learn about the different types of dental misalignments that patients can have to plan the proper treatments. It is possible to see different types of misaligned teeth with a physical examination, but it is easier to measure the malocclusions with X-rays. Some dental misalignments are toward the back of the mouth, and these malocclusions can create additional health issues, including making it difficult to chew food.
The inability to chew certain foods can lead to dietary deficiencies that cause other medical or dental health issues. A serious dental misalignment can cause serious issues in the mouth by applying pressure to the other teeth or rubbing against the soft tissues. Understanding your dental misalignments is imperative so that you can have treatment with braces, aligners or special appliances. Here are some of the types of dental malocclusions that you can have:
- Crossbite
- Underbite
- Overlapping teeth
- Crowded teeth
- Wide spaces
- Overjet
- Impacted teeth
It Is Possible to Have One or More Dental Misalignments
You can have one or more dental misalignments, and these are classified as mild, moderate, or severe problems. Dental malocclusions can occur with the baby or adult teeth, and it is important to have orthodontic treatment as soon as possible. While primary dental misalignments may not seem important, these problems can prevent the proper eruption and alignment of the adult teeth. In addition, if children have misaligned teeth, then other issues can occur, including speech impediments or gum disease.
Having properly aligned teeth often requires special treatments with palate expanders or headgear that helps the jaw to grow. These types of treatments work better on younger patients who have soft bones that are easier to repair. However, if you missed out on orthodontic treatments when you were younger, then you should still seek treatment for the problems.
You Can Wear Braces or Aligners to Repair Your Misaligned Teeth
Some types of dental misalignments aren’t noticeable until adolescence as the body goes through a rapid growth phase, and wearing aligners or braces is more common for this age group. However, young adults can also wear orthodontic devices, and there are also senior citizens who need to wear braces and aligners to avoid serious oral health issues from periodontal disease or trauma injuries. Most individuals have minor dental misalignments that are simple to repair with aligners or the removal of an impacted wisdom tooth. For more severe dental issues, a child, teenager or adult will require treatment with metal or ceramic braces.
To learn more, feel free to visit Central Texas Orthodontics in Austin, TX. Contact us today to schedule your consultation!
