Malocclusion When the Bite's Not Right
By Shadi Saba, DDS
Saba Orthodontics
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http://www.sabaortho.com/
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Malocclusion When the Bite's Not Right
Malocclusion literally means, bad bite. It may be a new word to you, but not for dentists and orthodontists; malocclusion is a technical term for crooked, crowded, or protruding teeth, which do not fit together properly. Most malocclusions are inherited. These include crowding of teeth, too much space between teeth, extra or missing teeth, cleft palate, and a variety of irregularities of the jaws and face. Some malocclusions are acquired. They can be caused by thumb-sucking, tongue thrusting, dental disease, premature loss of primary or permanent teeth, accidents, or some medical problems.
Left untreated, these orthodontic problems can become worse. Crooked and crowded teeth are hard to clean and maintain. This may contribute to conditions that may cause tooth decay, eventual gum disease and tooth loss. A bad bite can also cause abnormal wear of teeth surfaces, difficulty in chewing, and excess stress on the supporting bone, and gum disease.
Straighter Teeth Boost Self Esteem
When braces change looks, they change outlooks too. Beautiful, healthy smiles are only the most obvious benefit of orthodontics. Another outcome – increased self-confidence – may be less evident. But orthodontics can be credited for dramatic improvements in the careers and personal relationships of millions of people in the United States and Canada, according to the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO).
When braces change looks, they change outlooks too. Beautiful, healthy smiles are only the most obvious benefit of orthodontics. Another outcome – increased self-confidence – may be less evident. But orthodontics can be credited for dramatic improvements in the careers and personal relationships of millions of people in the United States and Canada, according to the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO).
Orthodontic patients come from all walks of life and their personal stories are uniquely compelling. Today many are grateful they don't get a second glance on the street. Before orthodontic treatment they drew stares of a non-complimentary nature.
Braces Can Improve Self-Image At Any Age
If patients begin treatment as children or adolescents they may not have to endure years of embarrassment. Since adolescence, one patient had automatically covered her mouth whenever she talked to someone. At age 47, she finally made up her mind to see an orthodontist. Her self-esteem was so low that she was afraid to waste the doctor's time. “It's a miracle,” she says. “Today, I don't mind walking up to people and looking them straight in the eye.” Now, her daughter is also in orthodontic care.
If patients begin treatment as children or adolescents they may not have to endure years of embarrassment. Since adolescence, one patient had automatically covered her mouth whenever she talked to someone. At age 47, she finally made up her mind to see an orthodontist. Her self-esteem was so low that she was afraid to waste the doctor's time. “It's a miracle,” she says. “Today, I don't mind walking up to people and looking them straight in the eye.” Now, her daughter is also in orthodontic care.
A minister in his mid 40's found, to his dismay, that he wasn't as effective with his congregation as he would have wished. Once he overheard some kids making fun of his teeth. After braces that's not an obstacle anymore. Now he isn't afraid to smile and if people don't notice his teeth, that doesn't bother him. That just means that they are normal.
A Better-Looking Bite Usually Works Better, Too
People whose bites are normal probably take eating for granted. For many who need braces, however, this can be an ordeal at least three times a day. Nowadays, thanks to the art and science of orthodontics, untold millions can look forward to meals. Their teeth meet soundly on both sides and they marvel at the transformation.
People whose bites are normal probably take eating for granted. For many who need braces, however, this can be an ordeal at least three times a day. Nowadays, thanks to the art and science of orthodontics, untold millions can look forward to meals. Their teeth meet soundly on both sides and they marvel at the transformation.
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