Occlusion refers to the alignment of the teeth and how they fit together at the top and bottom. The bites are considered correct when all the teeth are properly aligned, straight and they maintain a space proportional to its neighbours. Also the teeth of the upper jaw should fit on the bottom (the ends of the upper molars on the hollows of the lower molars), so the above protect the inner tissue of the cheeks. This is a must so people will not bite their cheeks inadvertently. Family Dentists in Niles IL state that the misalignment of the teeth can affect speech as well.
When the teeth are not properly aligned or both arches do not fit properly, this is when dentists speak of malocclusion, also known as misalignment. This is actually very common and many people do not seek treatment. Most people have some form of malocclusion, although not all of them are
subsidiaries of a specific treatment.
Causes of misalignment
The appearance of malocclusion (overbite, cross-bite, occluded teeth, crowding of teeth, under-bite, etc.) may have different causes:
Heredity (shape of the jaws).
- Children who suck their thumbs up to five years old.
- Using the bottle for too long.
- Breathing through the mouth.
- Eating habits.
- Children whose teeth have very little space between them (the definitive take up more space and therefore there is the risk that teeth grow crooked or out of place).
Treatment of misalignment
A periodic review is the best way to detect possible dental malocclusions and, depending on the severity, determine the most appropriate treatment in each case. Orthodontics, using fixed or removable appliances, is usually the best way to correct the misalignment of the teeth, incorrect number of teeth, excessive gaps between them, displacement of misplaced teeth, etc. However, in cases of serious malocclusion, surgery may be needed. There is the option of Invisalign as well, which is growing in popularity.
Family Dentists in Niles IL suggest that you repair misalignment as soon as possible. This type of problem can result in a number of oral issues. For more information, contact your local dentist.
