The Benefit of Orthodontics on Jaw Posture for Children and Teens
Orthodontic health is more than just achieving a beautiful smile; it is about laying the foundation for overall physical well-being. Among the variety of orthodontic solutions available, self-ligating braces stand out, especially for children and teenagers.
Ideal Age for Orthodontic Intervention
Early orthodontic evaluation is recommended between ages 7 and 8, which allows for timely identification and correction of orthodontic issues. This potentially simplifies future treatments and contributes to improved posture and overall health at an early age.
Understanding Malocclusion and Jaw Posture
Malocclusion, or the misalignment of teeth, goes beyond esthetic concerns, impacting the relationship of the upper and lower jaws. It refers to the misalignment of teeth and jaws, which can affect chewing, speaking, and the way the individual teeth wear over time.
When teeth do not align properly, it can lead to an imbalanced bite force distribution, affecting jaw alignment and, consequently, the posture of the jaws relative to each other.
How Correct Bite Relates to Posture: Pros and Cons
Maintaining a correct bite is crucial not only for oral health and the long-term health of the teeth.
Pros of Correct Bite
Improved Jaw Alignment: A correct bite ensures that the jaw is properly aligned, reducing strain on the teeth and associated jaw muscles.
Balanced Facial Muscles: When the bite is correct, the muscles of the face and neck work in harmony, leading to balanced muscle tone and overall facial symmetry.
Enhanced Chewing Efficiency: A proper bite allows for more effective chewing, which can aid digestion and reduce stress on the jaw during eating, contributing to overall muscular balance.
Decreased Risk of Tooth Wear: Correct alignment prevents uneven tooth wear.
Better Overall Health: Proper bite and alignment can contribute to improved breathing patterns and, in some cases, reduce the likelihood of sleep apnea, which is often related to the positioning of the jaw and airway.
Cons of Incorrect Bite
Poor Jaw Alignment: An incorrect bite can lead to misalignment of the jaw, leading to facial asymmetry when biting down.
Imbalanced Facial Muscles: An abnormal bite can cause uneven muscle usage, leading to muscle fatigue and tension, affecting facial symmetry and posture.
Inefficient Chewing: Misaligned teeth can make chewing difficult and less effective, potentially impacting digestion.
Increased Tooth Wear and Damage: An incorrect bite often causes uneven or excessive wear on teeth, leading to dental issues that may require extensive restorative corrective treatment.
Compromised Oral and Overall Health: A bad bite can contribute to a range of health problems, including periodontal disease, tooth decay, and even exacerbate conditions like sleep apnea, affecting overall well-being and quality of life.
Self-Ligating Braces: Types and Benefits
Burke & Redford Orthodontists offer a range of self-ligating braces, including:
Ceramic Braces: These braces are favored for their esthetic appeal, as they blend with the natural color of teeth, making them a discreet option for image-conscious teens and adults.
Damon System Braces: A well-known brand, Damon braces are a popular choice among patients seeking orthodontic treatment.
Metal Braces: Traditional yet effective, metal self-ligating braces are reliable for correcting a wide range of orthodontic issues.
The benefits of opting for self-ligating braces are numerous. They are designed to be easily adjusted, making for efficient visits to the orthodontist. Additionally, their innovative mechanism allows for longer intervals between visits, which is a significant advantage for busy families.
Orthodontic Appliances and Their Role in Enhancing Jaw Posture
Orthodontic appliances are not just about straightening teeth; they also play a significant role in correcting jaw misalignments and improving the upper and lower jaw relationships.
At Burke & Redford Orthodontists, various appliances are utilized to complement the benefits of self-ligating braces, targeting the unique needs of each child.
Palatal Expanders
– Used to widen a narrow upper jaw, creating adequate space for teeth alignment, and improving bite relationships in the width direction.
– Helps in correcting crossbites, which can contribute to asymmetrical jaw position and posture.
Herbst Appliance
– Encourages forward growth of the lower jaw in cases of Class II malocclusions (horizontal overbite) where the lower jaw is set back relative to the upper jaw.
– Helps to align the lower jaw, which can have a positive impact on upper and lower jaw balance from a profile perspective.
Headgear
– Applies external pressure to guide the growth of the face and jaws, particularly in underbite correction.
– Can improve the profile and facilitate better jaw alignment. In cases of underbites, can address a concave profile appearance of the face.
Mandibular Advancement Devices
– Designed to move the lower jaw forward, these devices are effective in treating Class II malocclusions.
– Can lead to an improved jaw position and, subsequently, a more balanced facial balance.
Retainers
– Used post-braces to maintain the position of straightened teeth and ensure the stability of orthodontic treatment.
– Proper alignment of teeth maintained by retainers contributes to a balanced bite.
Using Appliances with Self-Ligating Braces
Integration of these appliances with self-ligating braces provides a comprehensive orthodontic solution that addresses both dental alignment and skeletal discrepancies.
The combined approach can enhance the effectiveness of treatment, leading to improved dental health and posture.
30 Years of Expertise with Drs. Redford and Burke
Dr. Ryan Redford and Dr. Burke offer a comprehensive approach to orthodontic care, addressing complex dental and jaw issues with personalized treatment plans.
Their expertise ensures every child receives a customized treatment plan that optimizes dental function and supports overall physical well-being.
Request a Consultation
Burke & Redford Orthodontists prioritize thorough initial consultations to assess the individual needs of each child or teen, discussing the most suitable orthodontic options and the expected outcomes.
Parents are encouraged to call (951) 699-8011 during business hours or Request an Orthodontic Consultation at Burke & Redford Orthodontists to explore how self-ligating braces and appliances can benefit their children’s dental health and contribute to a healthier posture.