Weighing Your Options for Underbite Corrections
Woodlawn Orthodontics weighs in on various solutions for underbite corrections. (Source: WebMD, Braces, by WebMD Editorial Contributors, Medically Reviewed by Arefa Cassoobhoy, MD, MPH, August 17, 2020, https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/braces-and-retainers ).
Although an underbite may seem like a cosmetic issue, it can cause a number of problems, from speech difficulties, problems chewing food, and jaw pain to tooth decay, wearing away of the tooth enamel, and headaches. The exciting news is that there are many underbite solutions to restore the functionality of your jaw and make eating, speaking, and breathing easy.
An orthodontist is a professional who fixes underbites
Treating an underbite is a job for an orthodontist, a dentist who has undergone specialized training to diagnose, treat, and prevent jaw and teeth misalignment. An orthodontist completes dental school and goes on to obtain an orthodontics specialty education. The dental conditions an orthodontist is qualified to treat include jaw misalignment, overbites, underbites, crowded teeth, crooked teeth, and teeth that are too far apart.
“Orthodontic solutions help improve your smile and provide you with a better quality of life,” says Woodlawn Orthodontics. “An orthodontist will determine the best way to correct an underbite. For milder cases, underbite solutions consist of braces and clear aligners, while severe cases may require surgery.” A mild underbite is undetectable from the outside. The protrusion is easily evident when the teeth extend far forwards. This is seen in a severe underbite, which orthodontic treatments can fix.
Orthodontic solutions for an underbite
Braces are by far the most common way to treat misaligned teeth in children, according to WebMD editorial contributors. They have evolved in look and material, meaning you have choices beyond the traditional braces, underbite solutions consisting of metal brackets (small squares) placed on your teeth using an adhesive and connected by wire. Ceramic braces are another option. They use tooth-colored brackets, which make them subtler and less noticeable than their metal counterparts. Another type, lingual braces, are placed behind the teeth rather than the front. Finally, clear aligners or invisible braces consist of thin, transparent dental trays that fit your teeth and are removable. The discreet design of clear aligners and the ability to remove them during meals and brushing makes them a popular alternative to conventional orthodontic solutions.
“Based on your underbite, your orthodontist will recommend a dental appliance,” says Woodlawn Orthodontics. “You can have a conversation about the various underbite solutions available for your condition. Ultimately, the ideal method for your dental condition – whether traditional braces or aligners – will deliver the desired results.”
Braces work over time
Braces put constant pressure on the teeth and jaws to gradually move their position. The brackets, which can be plastic, stainless steel, or ceramic, are affixed to your teeth using a bonding agent or orthodontic bands. Spacers create sufficient space between teeth to make attaching the bands easier without applying too much pressure on the teeth. The arch wire in traditional braces acts as a track and guides the teeth in place. Ties are fine wires that fasten the arch wire to the brackets. A small metal part called the buccal tube is secured to the band of the last tooth. The rubber bands or elastics connect to the brackets. You can order them in any color you want. You’ll need to attach them as instructed by your orthodontist. You may additionally need to wear headgear to correct a misaligned bite. But you’ll have it on only while sleeping or at home.
Braces may hurt just a bit when they’re applied to your teeth or when they’re adjusted. “Never leave your adjustment until you’re sure your braces are comfortable,” advises Woodlawn Orthodontics. “Let your orthodontist know how your braces feel to prevent having to come in again for an adjustment.”
Make sure to follow your doctor’s care instructions. This includes avoiding foods like hard candies, gummies, popcorn, and corn on the cob. Treatment, on average, takes 1-3 years. Once your braces are off, you’ll love your new appearance. Are you considering orthodontic treatment? Contact Woodlawn Orthodontics for more information!
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