Dental health is so important to our overall wellbeing and things such as overbite can become a big issue if it’s not treated quickly. The alignment of your bite is a small thing but can make a big difference to your oral health too.
If not treated, a misaligned bite can cause wear on the teeth and even affect one’s ability to speak. Matters can become painful when the individual struggles to chew so it’s crucial to get it sorted out as soon as possible.
If you need a high quality Noosa dentist, there are several that know how to deal with underbite. Doing so can also have a positive impact on a young person’s self-esteem, so sorting out the matter quickly is definitely recommended.
What Is A Misaligned Bite?
Firstly, a misaligned bite is when the front teeth are overlapping the bottom. This issue commonly affects several individuals who suffer from it either minimally or acutely.
How Does Misalignment Start?
If someone has an underbite, it can be linked to inherited genes. Genetics play a huge role so it’s good to know that externally, nothing can be changed or avoided. Underbite normally is passed down from parents to kids and you’ll often find that the bottom layer of teeth are overcrowded.
This is why many young kids are required to visit the dentist to help issues with underbite. Only rarely can it be triggered by repetitive behaviours such as thumb-sucking or using a bottle for too many years. This will have to be a forceful repetition that is doing for many years to seriously effect one’s bite however.
If left untreated, there can be a number of complications such as chronic joint conditions, gum disease and an altered face shape.
Treatments For Underbite
Thankfully, there are powerful and effective correction techniques available. Here are a few:
- Braces – These now come in a variety of forms to suit any child. They will adjust any misalignments.
- Jaw expansion apparatus – This is placed in the upper jaw just before going to bed and works on correcting the issue over time.
- Chin caps – This limits the lower jaw from growing any bigger and keeps things even.
- Retainers and head apparatus – Head gear can be more obtrusive so it is the less common option.
- Surgery – If the case is fairly advanced and little can be done correction wise, surgery will be the best step. This is only the last resort, however, and the underbite should be severe that this method has to be used.
This article has given many reasons behind the causes, complications and treatments for underbites. If your child or someone you know has one then it is best to act quickly before the situation escalates.