All of us deserve a beautiful smile on our face, and we also prefer that our little children have the same. Unfortunately, many children are deprived of it due to either underbite or misaligned teeth.
There are several treatments available to straighten their lower teeth if it protrudes as a result of these issues.
Surgical procedures, aligners, and braces are among the options available to treat a particular ailment. You may enhance your smile and align your teeth better by getting the right treatment, which can improve your overall health.
If your child has such an issue, then it is better to visit Epic Dentistry for Kids and consult an experienced kids dentist in Aurora without delaying any further.
What is an underbite?
If your child’s lower jaw is extending beyond the upper teeth, then an underbite situation may arise. Early treatment is quite important for your child. Otherwise, it can reach mild to severe conditions.
What are the causes of an underbite?
About 5–10% of the general population has underbites, which are frequently inherited. Children are more likely to develop an underbite if a family member already has one.
Underbites are also more common in some ethnic groups, such as Asians and First Nations people. Thumb sucking, using pacifiers for extended periods of time, tongue thrusting, mouth breathing too much, and interferences between the upper and lower teeth can all be contributing causes and make the problem worse during dental growth.
The following are a few complications of underbites, particularly among the growing children:
- Chronic jaw or joint pain together with head- and earaches
- Chronic mouth breathing, halitosis, and bacterial infection
- Difficulty in speaking, chewing, and swallowing
- Other nighttime breathing difficulties
- Poor tooth alignment
- Self-esteem issues
- Sleep apnea
- Snoring
- Tooth decay from unnecessary wear of the tooth enamel
Treatments
Treatment options for underbites range from orthodontic solutions to surgical interventions, depending on severity and age.
Early orthodontic treatment is crucial, ideally starting around age seven, as it allows for more effective corrections while the jaw is still growing, potentially avoiding surgery later.
For younger patients, two common corrective appliances are used:
1) Palatal Expanders
These wire-frame devices fit across the palate and gradually widen it using a special “key” that is turned nightly. The expander is typically worn for about a year, facilitating proper alignment as the jaw develops.
2) Reverse Pull Face Mask
This device resembles headgear and is designed to reposition the upper jaw correctly. It involves metal bands attached to the upper back teeth that fit around the head, applying gentle pressure to train the jaw into place.
In more severe cases, or if the patient’s jaw growth has stopped, orthognathic jaw surgery may be necessary.
Additional treatments can include correcting tongue or lip ties, sedation dentistry for anxiety reduction, and tailored care advice for new patients.
Prompt consultation with an orthodontist can lead to effective early intervention, improving outcomes and overall dental health.
Final word
Early intervention for underbites is vital for children’s health and well-being. Consulting an experienced pediatric dentist ensures effective treatment options, promoting proper dental alignment and enhancing overall confidence.