Orthodontic Jaw Alignment Temecula, CA
A misaligned jaw occurs when the upper and lower teeth do not fit comfortably. The two most common types are overbite, where the upper teeth stick out over the lower teeth, and underbite, where the lower teeth sit in front of the upper teeth. Orthodontic jaw alignment is a treatment applied to realign the teeth or jaws to fit well.
Many people have misaligned jaws, which can cause physical discomfort and emotional distress due to self-consciousness. Untreated, misaligned jaws can lead to difficulties with eating, breathing, sleeping, and talking and can cause chronic pain. At Roncone Orthodontics, our orthodontist, Dr. Roncone offers various treatment options for jaw misalignment. Depending on the severity of the condition, some can take a year or more to complete.
Orthodontic Jaw Misalignment Treatment
If you suffer from an overbite or underbite, do not worry. Various treatment options can help you restore your smile and function. The first step you should take is to consult with Dr. Roncone . He will outline treatment options for jaw misalignment for your specific condition. The main treatment options are as follows:
Dental Braces
Braces are one of the most common and effective methods for correcting jaw misalignment. They consist of metal or ceramic brackets attached to the teeth and are connected by wires and elastic bands. The orthodontist periodically adjusts the braces to apply gentle pressure, gradually moving the teeth into their correct positions.
This process can take anywhere from one to three years, depending on the severity of the misalignment. Braces can correct many issues, including overbites, underbites, crossbites, and overcrowded or oddly spaced teeth. Proper oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups are essential during this treatment to prevent decay and ensure the best results.
Clear Aligners
Clear aligners are a popular alternative to traditional braces for treating jaw misalignment. They are one of the best options for crossbite correction. These custom-made, removable trays fit snugly over the teeth and gradually shift them into place. Patients wear each set of aligners for about two weeks before switching to the next set in the series.
Clear aligners are nearly invisible and can be removed for eating, brushing, and flossing. They offer a more convenient and aesthetically pleasing option for many patients. Treatment duration varies based on individual needs but generally ranges from several months to a few years.
Orthodontic Retainers
Retainers are devices worn after braces or clear aligners to maintain the new position of the teeth and jaw. They can be either fixed or removable, and their primary function is to prevent teeth from shifting back to their original positions.
Removable retainers are usually made of plastic and metal and are worn primarily at night, while fixed retainers consist of a thin wire bonded to the back of the teeth. The duration of retainer use varies; some patients may need to wear them for several years or indefinitely. Consistent use of retainers is crucial for open bite correction.
Orthodontic Appliance Treatments
Orthodontic appliances, such as expanders, headgear, and Herbst appliances, correct misalignments and guide jaw growth. These treatments are commonly used in children and adolescents. Expanders widen the upper jaw to create more space for teeth, while headgear applies external pressure to guide jaw and teeth growth.
Herbst appliances help correct severe overbites by encouraging the lower jaw to move forward. These appliances are commonly used with braces or other orthodontic treatments for overbite correction. The duration of treatment with orthodontic appliances varies, but they are generally worn for several months to a few years, depending on patient needs.
Jaw Surgery (Orthognathic Surgery)
Jaw surgery, or orthognathic surgery, is a treatment option for severe jaw misalignments that cannot be corrected with braces or other orthodontic appliances alone. Orthodontic jaw repositioning involves adjusting the jaws to improve alignment, function, and appearance. It is often performed with orthodontic treatment before and after surgery to ensure optimal results.
Recovery from jaw surgery can take several weeks to months, and patients may need to follow a special diet and avoid strenuous activities during this time. Jaw surgery can help underbite correction, facial aesthetics, and overall quality of life for patients with severe misalignments.
Myofunctional Therapy
Myofunctional therapy involves exercises and techniques designed to improve the function of the jaw muscles. This treatment consists of correcting improper oral habits that contribute to jaw misalignment. This therapy can benefit patients with tongue thrusting, mouth breathing, or incorrect swallowing patterns. Myofunctional therapists work with patients to strengthen the muscles of the face, tongue, and throat, promoting proper jaw alignment and function.
Treatment involves a series of sessions over several months, with patients practicing their exercises at home. Myofunctional therapy can be used in conjunction with other orthodontic treatments to enhance results and prevent relapse.
Veneers or Bonding
Veneers and bonding are cosmetic dental procedures used to improve minor jaw misalignments. Veneers are thin porcelain or composite resin shells bonded to the front surfaces of teeth to enhance their shape, size, and color. Bonding involves applying a tooth-colored resin to the teeth and sculpting it to the desired shape. While these treatments do not correct the underlying jaw position, they can create the illusion of a more aligned smile and improve overall aesthetics.
Palatal Expanders
Some orthodontic devices widen the upper jaw to create the necessary space for teeth and improve bite alignment. It is commonly used for crossbite correction and other alignments. They are widely used in growing children whose jaws are still developing. The expander is custom-made to fit patient mouths and is attached to the upper molars. By turning a screw in the center of the device, gradual pressure is applied to the palatal bones, encouraging them to widen over time. The expansion process usually takes several months, followed by a retention period to stabilize the new jaw width.
Schedule with Your Orthodontist in Temecula, CA Today
You must start your jaw alignment journey if your teeth are not aligned correctly. At Roncone Orthodontics, we have helped many to attain their perfect smile. We offer various types of jaw realignment orthodontics, such as braces and aligners. In rare situations, you might have to undergo corrective jaw surgery. To get started with your treatment, reach out to us via phone at (951) 595-8291. |