What You Should Know About Malocclusion of the Teeth

When we think of issues that affect our quality of life, we often focus on the serious physical and mental concerns. Few of us think of dental matters. However, various dental health issues can decrease one’s quality of life and even affect your self-confidence. For instance, if you have malocclusion of the teeth, you’ll probably be embarrassed by your smile. To address this concern, you can choose different types of braces in Weston FL. But before getting your braces, it’s important that you first know the causes and symptoms of malocclusion.

Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments of Malocclusion

What Causes Malocclusion?

Malocclusion, commonly known as abnormal teeth alignment, is often hereditary. However, there are other causes aside from genetics. Most malocclusion cases arise from the following:

·         Tumors of the jaw and mouth

·         Jaw fractures

·         Defective treatment of braces, retainers, crowns, fillings, and other dental appliances

·         Oddly shaped, impacted, lost, or extra teeth

·         Kids under six years old who have the habit of thumb sucking

·         Prolonged use of milk bottles and pacifiers

What are the Symptoms of Malocclusion?

Although most malocclusion symptoms are apparent, there are some which are not visible or noticeable. The noticeable symptoms include the following:

• Open bite, crossbite, underbite, or overbite

• Abnormal appearance of the face or cheeks because of a cleft lip or palate

• Crowded teeth or misaligned teeth

The unnoticeable symptoms of malocclusion are often determined during a regular dental check-up. Your dentist will perform a bite test to assess if you have misaligned teeth. If you experience the symptoms below, you may have to schedule an appointment sooner rather than later.

·         Difficulty in biting 

·         Frequent habit of breathing through the mouth

·         Speech difficulties such as lisping

·         Discomfort when chewing on food

Treat Malocclusion with Braces in Weston FL

At Dr. Lindsay Orthodontics, we offer different types of braces, including clear braces, that can transform your smile. To know more information on how our orthodontic treatments can solve your malocclusion problem, contact us today!

What Causes Crooked Teeth?

Did you know that having crooked teeth can be prevented? Well, they can! Aside from genes, crooked teeth are often a result of bad oral habits, injuries, and early baby teeth loss. Therefore, it’s essential to establish good oral hygiene habits early on, including seeing an orthodontist in Weston, FL. Doing this will help make sure your child’s teeth will grow healthy and straight!  In this article, we will discuss what causes crooked teeth and how to prevent them.

What Causes Crooked Teeth?

Premature Loss of Baby or Adult Teeth

Baby teeth play an important role in maintaining space for permanent teeth to grow in. When a baby tooth is lost prematurely, the rest of the teeth tend to shift towards the gap. This means the permanent teeth will no longer have the proper space to grow in. Therefore, it tends to grow crooked.

Same goes with adult teeth. When an adult tooth is lost and is left unreplaced, the rest of the teeth move towards the gap, resulting in misalignment.  Take care of yours and your child’s teeth to prevent early tooth loss and avoid having crooked teeth.

Incorrect Fit of Dental Restorations

When your dentures don’t fit correctly, they also leave room for the rest of your teeth to shift. To prevent problems, it’s best to visit a dentist and have your dentures adjusted or replaced.

Gingivitis or Gum Disease

Gum disease can cause your teeth to become crooked. It’s because gingivitis causes teeth to become loose, so they tend to shift out of place more easily. Establishing good oral hygiene and visiting the dentist regularly will help prevent gum disease.

Misalignment of The Jaw Due To Injury

Misalignment of the jaw due to an injury can result in having crooked teeth. Wearing a mouth guard when playing contact sports can help prevent injury and thereby preserve your teeth.

Bad Oral Habits

Bad oral habits like tongue thrusting, thumb sucking, and mouth breathing can result in crooked teeth. If your child has these habits, it’s best to consult with an orthodontist right away.  

Looking for an Orthodontist in Weston, FL?

If you or your child have crooked teeth, don’t hesitate to visit an Orthodontist in Weston, FL, today!  At Dr. Lindsay Orthodontics, we offer a wide range of teeth-straightening solutions!

2 Simple Steps to Making a Decision About Braces

Are you unhappy with your crooked and misaligned teeth? Are they affecting your confidence? Don't hesitate! Contact Dr. Lindsay to get braces in Weston, FL. Getting braces can be a great way to straighten your teeth and improve your smile. However, with so many different types of braces available, how do you know which treatment is best suited for you?

To guide you in making the right decision, we’ve come up with two simple steps you can follow.

How to Know if You Need Braces

Step 1

Why do you think you need braces? You must assess your needs before deciding which type of braces are right for you. Ask yourself the following questions:

·       Do I want people to know that I’m straightening my teeth, or do I want to be more discreet about it?

·       Do I have a limited budget, or is my budget flexible?

·       Do I need to straighten my teeth as fast as possible for an important event?

·       Are my teeth severely crooked, or do they only need minor corrections?

Step 2

After having a chat with yourself, you need the opinion of a professional. It’s possible that your big concern has another treatment option! Scheduling an appointment will offer insight into the medical and functional need for orthodontic intervention.

The Pros and Cons of the Different Types of Braces

Metal Braces

If your teeth are severely misaligned or your bite is offset, metal braces may be the ideal solution for you.

Pros: Can effectively correct malocclusions, straighten teeth, and re-align the jaw. 

Cons: They’re very noticeable and may feel uncomfortable.

Ceramic Braces

Ceramic braces are like traditional braces. In contrast, their brackets are made from a transparent material. They're much less noticeable when compared to traditional braces with metal brackets. Their invisibility makes them popular among adults who need orthodontic treatment.

Pros: Less visible but just as effective as metal braces.

Cons: Ceramic is less durable compared to metal. Not recommended for severe cases.

Invisalign Braces

Invisalign braces are a popular tooth straightening solution. They’re made from clear, plastic aligners that fit snuggly over teeth. They’re extremely discreet. In fact, they are so invisible, very few people will be able to tell you are wearing braces at all.

Pros: More comfortable compared to traditional braces. They’re made from smooth plastic material, so they don’t rub against the insides of your cheeks. Virtually invisible.

Cons: You may pay a bit more for these than the alternatives.  

Looking for Braces in Weston, FL?

Follow these two simple steps to help you decide which type of braces in Weston, FL is best suited for you! At Dr. Lindsay Orthodontics, we offer various teeth straightening solutions! Contact us for inquires.