The alignment of our teeth plays a crucial role not only in our smile but also in our overall oral health.
Indeed, the World Health Organization considers malocclusion one of the most important oral health problems, after caries and periodontal disease. It has collated an index of dentofacial anomalies, which comprises missing teeth, crowding of the anterior segment, spacing in the anterior segment, diastema in the anterior segment, largest anterior maxillary irregularity, largest anterior mandibular irregularity, anterior maxillary overjet, anterior mandibular overjet, anterior open and anteroposterior molar relationship.
Malocclusion is usually an inherited condition, but there are some factors that can affect the shape and structure of the jaw. These include frequent use of a dummy after the age of three, thumb sucking in early childhood, injuries to the jaw and atypically shaped or impacted teeth. The shape of the jaws or birth defects such as cleft lip and palate may also be reasons for malocclusion.
There are three different categories of malocclusion. Class 1 is the most common, where the bite is normal, but the upper teeth slightly overlap the lower teeth. Class 2 is retrognathism (overbite) when the upper jaw and teeth severely overlap the bottom jaw and teeth. Class 3, prognathism (underbite), is when the lower jaw protrudes or juts forward, causing the lower jaw and teeth to overlap the upper jaw and teeth.
Problem areas
As you are aware, when teeth do not align properly, it can lead to various oral health issues if left untreated.
Over time, an overbite or underbite can put excessive strain on the jaw joints, leading to jaw pain and disorders such as temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder. This can result in discomfort while chewing, speaking, and even opening or closing the mouth. This abnormal stress on the jaw muscles can also lead to tension and headaches in the temples. These headaches can be chronic and debilitating if the underlying dental condition is not corrected.
Misaligned teeth create spaces and crevices that are difficult to clean properly. These hard-to-reach areas become excellent breeding grounds for bacteria and plaque accumulation, increasing the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. If left untreated, tooth decay can lead to cavities and even tooth loss.
Speech impairments can arise, too. Gaps in teeth can sometimes produce whistling sounds while speaking, and an open bite – when the upper and lower teeth do not come in contact at the front or back, even when the mouth is fully shut– can result in an interdental lisp. This can affect a patient’s ability to communicate effectively, leading to self-consciousness and potentially impacting social interactions.
When upper and lower teeth do not align correctly, it can lead to excessive wear and tear on the teeth. Over time, this can result in worn enamel, chipped teeth, and even fractures. These dental problems may require restorative treatments such as fillings, bonding, or dental crowns to repair the damage caused.
Chewing food can be challenging for patients with malocclusion. This can hinder proper digestion and absorption of nutrients, leading to various digestive issues. It can also impact a person's ability to enjoy certain types of food, further affecting their overall quality of life.
Help at hand
Fortunately, as you know, many dental treatments can address overbites and underbites, correcting the misalignment and preventing further dental problems. Orthodontic intervention, such as braces or clear aligners, can gradually shift the teeth into proper alignment. Removing teeth can ease overcrowding and, in severe cases, orthognathic surgery may be required to realign the jaw and improve the bite.
Gaining the skills to provide patients with such treatments is crucial to produce excellent results. The Align Bleach and Bond (ABB) course from the IAS Academy is a two-day course which enables delegates to undertake simple to moderate alignment cases, as well as any additional treatments needed to finish cases post-orthodontic treatment for long-term stability and function. Dental professionals can expect ongoing support at every stage, as well as an online mentoring system which can be used for help at any point during treatment. The ABB course is the ideal introduction to integrating ortho-restorative dentistry.
The different types of malocclusion can lead to a range of dental problems if left untreated. From jaw pain and speech impairments to tooth decay and worn teeth, these misalignments can significantly impact an individual’s oral health and overall well-being. Discussing treatment options with a patient is the first step towards resolving these issues and putting a healthier smile on their face.
For more information visit www.iasortho.com
References available on request.