Malocclusion is the medical term for when the teeth do not properly align. Misaligned teeth can be caused by many different things and can result in a long list of problems. Understanding how it happens and the potential symptoms is important when it comes to finding a solution.
Defining Malocclusion
Occlusion is the term for how the teeth line up with each other. In a perfect scenario, your upper teeth would just slightly overlap the lower ones. The molars should fit into each other, with the points of one fitting into the grooves of the other. When everything is as it should be, you can speak and chew easily without fear of biting your lips, tongue, or cheeks.
Malocclusion can be the result of many things. Sometimes, having different sized upper and lower jaws is passed down genetically. In other cases, the teeth are simply too large for the jawbone. If you have extra teeth, compacted teeth, missing teeth, or oddly-shaped teeth, this can all contribute to malocclusion.
Certain things can happen during life that cause a misalignment of teeth. These include:
- Childhood habits, such as sucking on the thumb and tongue thrusting
- Prolonged use of a pacifier and/or bottle
- Tumors of the jaw or mouth
- A severe injury to the jaw
- Badly done dental work, including ill-fitting braces, crowns, and fillings
Potential Symptoms of Malocclusion
There are several negative impacts that can occur as a result of misaligned teeth. Some of the most common are:
- Discomfort when chewing or speaking
- Mouth breathing
- Open bite (unable to bite food correctly)
- Unusual facial appearance
- Speech difficulty
Treatment of Malocclusion
Thankfully, there are many potential treatment options available for those with malocclusion. These treatments aim to ease the strain being placed on your jaw while also making it easier for you to access and clean your teeth. Depending on your issues, you may need braces or some other form of orthodontic treatment.
If you would like to learn more about how malocclusion can be addressed, reach out to Central Texas Orthodontics in Austin. We can create a personalized treatment plan for you. Contact us today to book an appointment and get started!
Excellent service and treatment!
by Lisa
Category: orthodontistWe have been seeing Dr. St. Loius at Central Texas Orthodontics for a couple kids now over several years. Everytime we walk in for an appointment, we are greeted warmly and promptly taken back. The office is easy to get to and always runs on time, we have never had to wait to be seen, which is remarkable for a medical/dental office! The payment options were also fair and easy to understand. And the follow up, even after those braces come off, has been stellar! Retainers get lost or chewed up sometimes (ugg!), but a quick text into the office and we were able to drop off the original molds and have new ones made very quickly. Everyone who works at this office truly cares, and you can tell they all enjoy where they work, which is really wonderful to see. I cannot speak highly enough of this office, the staff, the care, and ESPECIALLY the after care and protecting our investment.
Austin’s Best Orthodontics!
by Robin Petmecky
Category: orthodontistDr. St. Louis and his staff are exceptional! Their professional, friendly and caring manner stand out every time I have an appointment. They are always very positive during my visits and make me feel like I’m part of their family. I never have to wait to be seen and I’m usually out in a minimal amount of time. I had my last orthodontic visit recently and they invited me to stop in anytime, just to say hello. I highly recommend Central Texas Orthodontics to anyone needing their services. They are truly the BEST!
FANTASTIC GROUP!
by Melissa Moore Yacono
Category: orthodontistI love this office and the lovely, happy, warm staff!! Every one of the staff is kind and friendly! The vibe of the office is uplifting, relaxing, and Austin-y. Love it. The plants make it pleasant. Everything is so clean! What a refreshing visit and thank you so much for the stellar customer service.
Simply the Best!
by Christine Laux
Category: orthodontistDr. B. and his team are fantastic: Everyone just truly cares! They are knowledgeable and super helpful, always happy to consult. I recommend CTO not only for children and teens, but for adults as well! My two teenage daughters got their braces and I got my Invisalign. Dr. B. took his time to go over all our treatment plans and make adjustments. The communication is seamless and very responsive. All team members are wonderful - my special shoutout goes to Beatrice and Christen though: Those two lovely ladies go above and beyond with everything they do! Thanks to y’alls fabulous care our teeth are all straight now!
Awesome Experience
by Norma Constancio
Category: orthodontistDr. St. Louis and his staff were wonderful! From their friendly staff, nice office environment and Dr. St. Louis always willing to answer my questions. I would 100% recommend Central Texas Orthodontics to anyone.
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