Jaw malalignment and damaging bites may be treated before puberty. The best age for treatment for jaw malalignment and damaging bites can range from 7 to 14 years old. Your child’s orthodontist is the best person to recommend the correct mode and timing of early treatment. Your child should see an orthodontist at age seven for an assessment.
Deficient growth of the upper jaw can be treated using a facemask or reverse pull headgear. A narrow upper jaw can be treated with an expansion screw.
Deficient growth of the lower jaw can be treated by functional appliances.
The success of treatment depends on compliance with appliance wear and the natural growth potential of the child.
Upper jaw growth can be restricted using a headgear. The success of treatment depends on compliance with appliance wear.
Restriction of lower jaw growth is often unpredictable and prone to relapse. Such treatment is rarely undertaken.
When the jaws are misaligned, teeth may be forced to a bite in a manner which is damaging to the health of the teeth and gums. If left untreated, this can lead to loosening and early loss of teeth.
Teeth can be brought out of a damaging bite using fixed or removable appliances. The bite may need to be propped up with cement or plastic blocks in order to align the teeth. The success of treatment depends on compliance with appliance wear and maintaining good oral hygiene.
In adults, these disharmonies of jaw size or position can only be corrected surgically.
Some of the common problems are best dealt with a combined braces and surgical treatment approach known as Orthognathic Surgery. These are:
Orthognathic surgery is a predictable treatment option for complex dental/ facial problems. It ensures the best possible results, both functionally and aesthetically. The lasting reward is a healthier and happier you.
Treatment is carried out in 4 phases:
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