A healthy bite isn’t just about straight teeth. The way the upper and lower teeth line up affects everything from talking to chewing. When the jaws close, teeth that don’t line up properly are said to have malocclusion. It may start out small but over time it can cause jaw pain, trouble speaking or even damage to teeth. To keep your teeth healthy for a long time, you need to know what this condition is, what causes it and how to fix it. Treatment is both easy to get and works well with the help of a skilled Dentist in Jarrell, TX.
What Is Malocclusion and Why It Matters
When the teeth don’t fit together properly, that’s called malocclusion. It can be small or big, depending on the type. There are usually three groups for the condition:
- Class I: The bite is normal but the teeth are too close together, turned or spaced out.
- Class II: This is often called an overbite and it happens when the upper teeth stick out too far over the lower ones.
- Class III: An underbite is when the lower teeth are in front of the upper teeth.
Each of these types affects how the teeth work in different ways and may need different kinds of treatment.
What Signs Should You Look Out For?
Malocclusion often develops gradually. Some cases go unnoticed, while others have clear signs. If you pay attention to the following signs, you can make sure you get treatment early:
- Teeth that are bent, crowded or overlapping
- Having trouble chewing or biting down evenly
- A lot of biting on the tongue or cheeks
- Pain, clicking or tightness in the jaw
- Problems with speech, like a lisp
- Breathing through the mouth
- Teeth that wear down unevenly
Some kids may also show early signs, such as sucking their thumbs, using pacifiers for too long or having trouble closing their mouths. It’s important to notice these signs early so that fixing them is easier.
What Causes Teeth to Shift Out of Place?
A number of things can cause malocclusion. Some are passed down from parents, while others grow over time. The most common reasons are:
- Genetics that change the shape of the jaw or the way the teeth line up
- Things kids do, like sucking their thumbs or thrusting their tongue
- Losing teeth that causes teeth to move
- Accidents that hurt the jaw or teeth
- Dental restorations that aren’t lined up right
- Jaw growth that isn’t normal
The Dentist in Jarrell, TX can make a good plan once they know what the problem is.
What Can Be Done to Fix Malocclusion?
Treating malocclusion depends on how severe it is and the age of the patient. Here are some options that may be recommended:
- Braces or Clear Aligners: These slowly move teeth into place so they work and look better.
- Tooth Removal: Pulling one or more teeth out of a crowded mouth makes room for alignment.
- Orthodontic Devices: Retainers, expanders or spacers help the jaw grow in the right way.
- Surgery: If the skeletal misalignment is very bad, surgery on the jaw may be necessary.
- Cosmetic Procedures: In mild cases, crowns or bonding can help with balance and alignment.
Also Read – The Root Causes of Crooked Teeth and Their Correction
Choose Expert Dental Care in Jarrell
If you ignore malocclusion, you could have long-term pain and serious oral health problems. Diagnosis and treatment that are done on time and tailored to the patient make all the difference. Jarrell Dental Care offers personalized treatment plans that focus on results to give you reliable solutions and expert advice. The skilled Dentist in Jarrell, TX provides top-notch care to bring back alignment, function and confidence. Make an appointment today to start on the path to a healthier, straighter smile.
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