Unionville Expert Explains How to Correct Common Orthodontics Issues Through Braces and Other Treatm

Markham, Ontario - There are many malocclusions that might send patients running to an orthodontist to straighten their teeth using braces. Dr. Arun Rajasekaran, a North York braces expert who specializes in orthodontics for both children and adults, explains some of the most common orthodontic problems. Crowding is perhaps the most common issue and occurs when there isn't enough room in a patient's mouth for all the permanent teeth. As a child grows, it can get worse over time as teeth grow in over each other. When the lower jaw outgrows the upper jaw resulting in the lower teeth protruding over the top teeth, it is called an underbite. Conversely, when the top teeth cover the lower teeth, it is called an overbite. An overbite can lead to teeth becoming excessively worn and even cause the bottom teeth to bite into the roof of the mouth. Spacing between teeth is another of the most common orthodontic complaints, says Rajasekaran, whose Unionville & Stouffville orthodontics practice creates beautiful smiles through braces every day. Missing teeth or a dental arch that is either too small or too wide can lead to spacing. Crossbites occur when the front or back upper teeth fit into the inside of the lower teeth. When the front upper teeth jet out too far forward it is called an overjet and is caused by thumb-sucking or uneven jaw growth. If a patient's front teeth do not touch when the back teeth are touching it is an open bite. This can create chewing and speech problems, and can be caused by thumb-sucking. 
Once the orthodontist determines the malocclusion a patient has, he will be able to craft the correct treatment plan to fix it. Treatment can include the use of appliances, such as braces, or tooth removal and sometimes even surgery. 
Orthodontists now have several appliance options to offer patients.  A functional appliance uses muscle action to move teeth and align the jaws. Some are fixed and bonded to the teeth while others are removable.
Braces are known as fixed appliances, and there are more options than ever before. Standard metal braces involve wires and brackets cemented to the teeth. During treatment, the wires are tightened and adjusted, applying pressure to move the teeth. 
There are also "self-ligating" braces that have a clip that keeps the wire in place. They tend to move a bit faster than metal braces and can shave months off of treatment time. 
For patients looking to treat their malocclusions more discretely, there are invisible options as well.  Invisalign works through a series of custom-made and removable aligners, and the cost is similar to metal braces. The aligners are clear, making them invisible to the eye, and because they are removable, a patient can continue to eat and drink as normal. 
Severe malocclusions require more extreme treatment, such as tooth extraction or surgery. This may be necessary in cases of extreme crowding. Once a tooth has been removed, a spacer will keep the surrounding teeth from moving into the open space. Surgery may be required for adults with severe problems because their jaw growth has stopped. 
The only way to determine the best treatment plan is through a visit with an orthodontist. Children should have their first visit at the age of 7, and even if treatment is not needed, and orthodontist will be able to monitor the child's jaw growth and teeth. It's important to remember that orthodontic treatment is about much more than the perfect smile - it's about proper tooth function to maintain a patient's oral health.