Are you noticing some irregularities with your teeth or experiencing discomfort in your jaw? Maybe you’re facing challenges with chewing or speaking, or your smile doesn’t feel quite right. These could be indicators of bite issues, and Moffett & Walley Orthodontics is here to help. With multiple types of braces to offer patients in Clinton and Madison, we’re equipped to tackle various alignment problems. To learn what types of bite issues braces can fix, keep reading!
What Are The Different Types Of Bites?
When we talk about a bite, we don’t mean how you bite into food. We’re referring to how your upper and lower teeth come together.
Correct bite alignments are crucial for a great smile, oral health, and functionality. Bite problems, or malocclusions, can lead to a variety of issues, from difficulty chewing and speaking to more severe dental and jaw complications, like incurable temporomandibular disorders (TMD).
Bite problems we commonly see at Moffett & Walley Orthodontics are…
- Overbites — the upper teeth protrude significantly over the lower teeth. Overbites can lead to wear on the lower teeth and sometimes cause jaw pain.
- Underbites — characterized by the lower teeth extending beyond the upper, potentially causing difficulty in biting and chewing and sometimes leading to speech issues.
- Crossbites — some of the upper teeth sit inside the lower teeth when the mouth is closed. This bite pattern can lead to uneven wear on the teeth and an increased risk of gum disease and bone loss.
- Open bite — the upper and lower teeth don’t meet. Open bites can make biting and chewing difficult and may also contribute to speech impediments.
- Crowding and spacing issues — when teeth are too close together or too far apart, respectively. These conditions can create difficulties in performing oral hygiene. Teeth and gums that are not properly cleaned have an increased risk of cavities and gum disease.
“Commonly see” is not interchangeable with “exclusively see”! If none of the above sounds like your bite pattern, don’t worry. You’re not out of luck! The board-certified Dr. Moffett of Moffett & Walley Orthodontics can use braces to correct many uncommon bite issues, too.
How Do Braces Work To Fix Bite Problems?
Braces are a powerful tool in orthodontics, renowned for their effectiveness in correcting a wide range of bite issues. They work by applying continuous gentle pressure to slowly move teeth into the desired position. This process, called bone remodeling, aligns the teeth and adjusts the underlying bone structure for a more functional and aesthetically pleasing bite!
At Moffett & Walley Orthodontics, we offer fixed and removable braces to treat as many orthodontic concerns as possible. Let’s check them out:
- Traditional metal braces are highly effective for all types of bite problems, including complex bite corrections, offering precision and reliability. Updates to their technology over the years have made them less noticeable and more comfortable than ever.
- Clear braces provide the perfect metal braces alternative for those seeking a more discreet option. Their ceramic, tooth-colored brackets and ligatures blend right in with the natural color of your teeth. This design strikes a perfect balance between your desired aesthetics and the appliance’s functionality, making them a popular choice among teens and adults who are conscious about the appearance of braces during their orthodontic treatment.
- For patients prioritizing aesthetics and convenience, Invisalign clear aligners are an excellent choice. These custom-made, removable aligners are virtually invisible and allow for easier oral hygiene and eating. Invisalign trays are best for mild to moderate cases.
Each type of braces has unique advantages, and Dr. Moffett’s expertise ensures that every patient receives the right orthodontic appliance and personalized treatment plan for their specific bite issues. His board-certified orthodontist status means you are in the most capable of hands. So, whether your bite problems are common or rare, Dr. Moffett can help set your alignment straight!
Why Are Bite Problems Such A Big Deal?
Addressing bite issues with braces is an investment beyond just having a pretty smile. It’s a step to improving your long-term oral health and overall well-being. Here are just a few ways that fixing bite problems can improve the quality of life for patients of all ages!
- Correcting malocclusions can significantly reduce the risk of tooth decay, gum disease, and abnormal wear of tooth enamel. Properly aligned teeth are easier to clean and less likely to harbor harmful plaque and bacteria.
- An ideal bite contributes to improved chewing and digestion, allowing you to enjoy a variety of foods without discomfort. When the teeth and jaws are aligned, it is easier to chew food more effectively, decreasing the risk of choking and indigestion.
- Correct bites alleviate undue stress on the jaw joints and muscles, relieving TMD symptoms and preventing chronic headaches or facial pain associated with misaligned teeth.
- Orthodontic treatment can improve your breathing, which can help eliminate bad breath and treat sleep disorders like sleep apnea!
- Treating your bite problems will save you time and money! With an improved bite, you’re less likely to waste your valuable time and hard-earned cash at the doctor or dentist for dental emergencies and indigestion solutions.
But it doesn’t just stop at physical improvements. For many, the psychological impact of correcting bite problems is just as important as relief from physical symptoms. A confident smile can enhance self-esteem and social interactions, positively influencing personal and professional relationships throughout your lifetime!
Find Out If Braces Can Help You Today!
At Moffett & Walley Orthodontics, embracing orthodontic treatment today can pave the way for a healthier, happier tomorrow. And because orthodontic treatment creates long-lasting results, your healthier, happier tomorrow can last years!
Don’t wait. Schedule your free consultation today to experience the difference a perfect alignment can make.