Early Ortho

What is Early Intervention Orthodontics?

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In the past, orthodontics were reserved for teenagers. Adolescence is a time when the teeth and jaw are still developing, and it’s considered easier to gently adjust teeth into better alignment. More recently, adults who were unable to get orthodontics for some reason in their teen years have been able to get successful results from braces in Overland Park, KS. Now, orthodontists are able to treat kids younger than teens with orthodontics. This is called intervention orthodontics, and it’s highly beneficial for children who are on track to develop more serious alignment troubles later on.

What is Early Intervention Orthodontics?

Early intervention orthodontics, or early treatment, as it’s often called, is a means of addressing orthodontic issues that can negatively impact a youngster’s oral health in later stages of development. The American Association of Orthodontists recommend that parents should bring in their child for an orthodontic evaluation at about age seven. This is a good time for the orthodontist in Overland Park, KS to be able to determine if issues are developing, and the best time for that treatment to begin. Keep in mind that just because a child comes in at age seven doesn’t necessarily mean that orthodontic treatment will begin at age seven. It’s possible that the orthodontist will recommend waiting some time before treatment. It all depends upon the individual circumstances.

What Issues Can be Identified by an Evaluation?

The orthodontist will carefully examine your child’s teeth, gums and jaw during this evaluation. You may be surprised to learn that a great many potential problems can be identified at this stage, including the potential for overcrowding, alignment issues and jaw trouble.

If you’d like to bring your child in to be evaluated for early intervention orthodontics in Overland Park, KS, contact Bulleigh Orthodontics today to book an appointment.

Treatment Options for a Misaligned Jaw

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If you are having bite issues, you might have a misaligned jaw. Your orthodontist in Overland Park, KS, will perform an exam and provide you with your treatment options.

But first, let’s go over some basics of a malocclusion (misaligned jaw), what causes it to occur, the problems it causes, and general treatment options.

What Is a Malocclusion?

A malocclusion, usually called a misaligned jaw or a misaligned bite, is when your upper and lower teeth aren’t properly aligned when your mouth is closed. So basically, you have a bad bite.

What Causes a Malocclusion?

A malocclusion in Overland Park, KS, can be caused by a head, mouth, or face injury, oral tumors, an impacted tooth, airway obstruction, or a genetic condition.

What Problems Do Malocclusions Cause?

Untreated malocclusions can lead to other oral issues.

For example,

  • Chewing and speaking problems.
  • Oral pain.
  • Sleep apnea.
  • Temporomandibular joint disorder (TND).
  • Cosmetic dental issues.
  • Increased chances of developing more severe dental problems.

Treatment Options for a Misaligned Jaw

How your orthodontist treats your misaligned jaw will depend on how severe your issues are and what is causing them.

But here is a general overview of the most commonly used treatments for misaligned jaw issues.

  • Traditional braces with metal brackets and wires.
  • Upper jaw expander with a wireframe device that is placed on the top of your mouth to widen it. It is used to correct an overbite.
  • Headgear braces, along with straps that are placed outside of your mouth and around your head.
  • Reverse pull face mask with braces placed on your upper back teeth with straps placed outside your mouth and around your head.

Contact a Reputable Orthodontist in Overland Park, KS

A misaligned jaw can lead to more severe oral issues if not treated. Please Contact Bulleigh Orthodontics today to schedule an exam and learn about your treatment options.