Common Orthodontic Conditions Affecting Oral Function And Aesthetics

Having orthodontic irregularities can greatly interfere with normal functions like chewing, biting, and speaking, in addition to negatively impacting oral aesthetics. These can arise due to several reasons such as genetics, or unhealthy habits like thumb-sucking or tongue-thrusting. 

Fortunately, orthodontic treatments help overcome these irregularities and offer successful outcomes. Once an appropriate diagnosis has been made by our cosmetic dentist in St. Cloud, MN, a customized treatment plan can be executed. 

Some common orthodontic irregularities

Malocclusions or bad bites can have an adverse effect on your dental and physical well-being. This can lead to a cascade of problems such as poor oral hygiene, dental caries,  gum disease, tooth loss, and digestive disorders. 

Some common orthodontic irregularities are as follows:

Crowding of teeth

• This is classified as Type 1 malocclusion.
• Crowding of your teeth occurs when there is limited space available for permanent teeth to erupt and align properly. 
• Your teeth may be twisted, impacted, or appear crooked. 
• This interferes with brushing and flossing leading to poor oral hygiene, and can also be aesthetically unappealing.

Overbite 

• Also known as anterior overlap, Class II retrognathism, or deep bite. 
• It presents with the upper arch projecting way beyond the lower teeth. 
• Signs of an overbite include:
  • Protruding upper lip
  • Gummy smile
  • Wearing of the front teeth (attrition)

Underbite

• Also known as Class III prognathism, and a negative overjet. 
• Here the lower teeth project further than the upper teeth. 
• This could result due to a short upper jaw bone or an excessively large lower jaw bone. 
• Signs include:
  • Protruding lower lip
  • Chin appears extremely large

Crossbite

• Crossbite refers to the tilting of the lower teeth in relation to the upper teeth. 
• The upper teeth may abnormally contact the lower teeth on the tongue side. 

Difficulties that arise due to orthodontic irregularities

The following functional and aesthetic difficulties can arise due to orthodontic irregularities:

• Difficulty chewing, or biting 
• Breathing problems
• Dental or jaw pain
• Speech problems
• Snoring, bruxism (teeth grinding), or sleeping issues
• Irregular facial profile
• Embarrassment due to an unaesthetic smile or lack of confidence

Treating the orthodontic irregularities

Orthodontists strive correct orthodontic irregularities to restore oral function and aesthetics through dental appliances such as:

• Fixed orthodontic appliances such as braces, and space maintainers
• Removable orthodontic appliances such as aligners, headgear, lip and cheek bumpers, palatal expanders, and retainers
• A splint or jaw repositioning appliances (especially for TMJ disorders)

Conclusion

It is essential to diagnose orthodontic irregularities at an early stage so that they can be treated with high-quality orthodontic and cosmetic care. This enhances your oral health, aesthetics, and overall health and well-being.