Orthodontics in Vista and San Diego

A malocclusion is an incorrect relationship between the maxilla (upper arch) and the mandible (lower arch), or a general misalignment of the teeth. Malocclusions are so common that most individuals experience one, to some degree. The poor alignment of the teeth is thought to be a result of genetic factors combined with poor oral habits, or other factors in the early years.
The following are three main classifications of malocclusion:● Class I – The occlusion is typical, but there are spacing or overcrowding problems with the other teeth.● Class II – The malocclusion is an overbite (the upper teeth are positioned further forward than the lower teeth). This can be caused by the protrusion of anterior teeth or the overlapping of the central teeth by the lateral teeth.● Class III – Prognathism (also known as “underbite”) is a malocclusion caused by the lower teeth being positioned further forward than the upper teeth. An underbite usually occurs when the jawbone is large or the maxillary bone is short.
Here are some of the main reasons to seek orthodontic treatment for a malocclusion:● Reduced risk of tooth decay – A malocclusion often causes an uneven wear pattern on the teeth. The constant wearing of the same teeth can lead to tooth erosion and decay.● Better oral hygiene – A malocclusion can be caused by overcrowding. When too many teeth are competing for too little space, it can be difficult to clean the teeth and gums effectively. It is much easier to clean straight teeth that are properly aligned.● Reduced risk of TMJ – Temporomandibular jaw syndrome (TMJ) is thought to be caused by a malocclusion. Headaches, facial pains and grinding teeth during sleep all result from the excessive pressure to the temporomandibular joint. Realigning the teeth reduces pressure, and eliminates these symptoms.

● Phase 1 – The Planning StageThe orthodontist makes an exact diagnosis in order to realign the teeth in the most effective and expedient way. ● Phase 2 – The Active PhaseNext, the orthodontist will recommend custom orthodontic device(s) to gently move the teeth into proper alignment. This orthodontic appliance may be fixed or removable. ● Phase 3: The Retention Phase
When the teeth have been correctly aligned, fixed braces and removable deices will be removed and discontinued. The orthodontist will next create a custom retainer. The goal of the retainer is to ensure that the teeth do not begin to shift back to their original positions. Retainers need to be worn for a specified amount of time per day for a specified time period. During the retention phase, the jawbone will reform around the realigned teeth to fully stabilize them in the correct alignment.

Straighter teeth perform chewing, biting and speaking functions more effectively than crooked teeth. In addition, a straight smile boosts confidence, is aesthetically pleasing to look at, and can help stave off a wide variety of dental ailments.

There are several types of malocclusion including overbite, underbite, crossbite, and overcrowding. Each of these alignment problems negatively impacts the functionality and cosmetic appearance of the teeth.

Foods to AvoidStick to softer foods for the first few days following the placement of braces to optimize comfort. Throughout the course of treatment, there are types of foods that should be avoided entirely. These foods can snap archwires, displace orthodontic bands and loosen brackets. Your orthodontist will offer a complete list of foods to steer clear of, but here are some general examples:● Hard Foods – Ice cubes, popcorn kernels, and potato chips.● Sticky Foods – Taffy, gum, bagels, jerky and caramel.● Sugary Foods – Candy, jam, jelly, chocolate, breath mints and soda.● On The Bone Foods – Chicken wings, barbecue ribs and corn on the cob.
Cleaning Around BracesOrthodontic braces create spots where oral bacteria can stick and promote tooth decay. It is crucial to brush your teeth after every meal or snack to rid the teeth of debris and plaque. Flossing is also an essential part of everyday braces care. All sides of each tooth should be carefully cleaned twice a day.
Preventing Damage During AthleticsSports are one of the major causes of dislodged and broken orthodontic appliances. Special mouth guards that protect braces should be worn every time a sport is played. Braces can be rendered ineffective from loose bands, brackets and broken archwires. An appointment should be made with your orthodontist as promptly as possible so appliances can be fixed for maximum function. A broken orthodontic appliance prolongs total treatment time when not corrected.
Commitment to Best ResultsBraces require a significant commitment from the wearer to work effectively. It is essential to attend scheduled orthodontic adjustment appointments and follow instructions diligently. Remember: the result of effective treatment is a perfect smile!

The first visit to the orthodontist can involve different examinations to determine what treatments are required and how they will impact the teeth and jaws.
Here is an overview of the types of orthodontic examinations and records that the orthodontist uses to plan treatment:● Medical and Dental History Evaluation- Orthodontic treatments cannot begin until other existing medical and dental issues are resolved or are at least under control. ● Bite Impressions- Bite impressions or molds are invaluable tools in determining the exact nature of the malocclusion. Molds allow a closer look at how the upper and lower jaws fit together. ● Photographs of the Face and Mouth- This shows how the treatment is progressing and impacting overall facial appearance. Facial photographs also allow for the measurement of facial proportions.● Computer-Generated Pictures of the Head and Neck- This allow the orthodontist to measure facial proportions and to determine ideal facial aesthetic. Facial appearance is an important consideration to make when planning treatment.● Panoramic X-rays of the Jaws and Teeth- Panoramic x-rays offer excellent insight into the general health of the teeth, gums and jawbone. X-rays show precise root structures of the teeth and inform the orthodontist as to how the upper and lower jaws fit together.

Here is a brief overview of some of the most common orthodontic conditions:
Overcrowding- Overcrowding occurs when there is limited or no available space for permanent teeth to erupt and align properly. As a result of such crowding, some teeth may twist, become impacted or grow in a crooked manner. The crowding of teeth is also known as a Type I malocclusion. Though overcrowding is generally considered less serious than other types of irregularities, it tends to look unappealing and hinders efforts to thoroughly brush and floss teeth.
Overbite- An overbite is present when the upper arch of teeth projects further than lower teeth. In a more serious case, the lower teeth are completely overlapped. An overbite is also called anterior overlap, a Class II retrogathism or a deep bite. Signs of an overbite include a protruding upper lip, a gummy smile and the noticeable wearing of front teeth.
Underbite- An underbite, as the name may indicate, is the reverse of an overbite, where the lower teeth are projected further than the upper teeth. Other names for an underbite include a Class III prognathism and a negative overjet. In many cases, the cause of an underbite is either a short upper jaw bone or an excessively large lower jaw bone. Signs of an underbite include a protruding lower lip and a chin that appears overly large.
Crossbite- In many cases, an underbite also gives rise to a crossbite. Crossbite is the tilting of the lower teeth in relation to the upper teeth. This causes the upper teeth to hit the lower teeth on the tongue side, as opposed to the outside. Crossbite can also occur alone and cause uneven wear patterns on the teeth.

Orthodontic appliances are not just limited to fixed and removable braces. There are many devices available to correct jaw alignment irregularities and reposition the teeth. In some cases, traditional fixed or removable braces are used in conjunction with another type of orthodontic appliance, which serves to fulfill one of the following functions:● Expanding the palate to create space.● Closing large gaps between the teeth.● Correcting irregularities, such as an elongated mandible (lower jaw) bone or a short maxilla (upper jaw) bone.● Alleviating crowding in the upper or lower jaw.
Types of Orthodontic AppliancesPalatal Expanders- These devices widen the upper arch to create room for the eruption of permanent teeth and are used to correct a narrow bite or crossbite. Palate expanders are fairly discreet and work effectively as long as the device is adjusted at the designated intervals.Facemasks (Reverse Headgear)- Facemasks are designed to combat growth discrepancies between upper and lower jaw arches. Facemasks are removable, but must be worn for 12-20 hours a day to expedite treatment.Headgear- Headgear restricts lower jaw growth and allows the mandible to catch up. Headgear consists of a frame which fits around the head and is attached to braces and bands.

It is important to remember that orthodontic discomfort generally decreases within a few days. There are several home remedies, however, that will help ease initial discomfort:● Wax Application- Orthodontic relief wax is usually provided at your appointment and can be applied to the braces as required. If the soreness is being caused by braces rubbing on the cheek, lip or tongue, the wax provides a smooth, effective buffer between the two.● Salt Water Rinses- The salt water mixture actually extracts excess fluid in inflamed tissue by way of osmosis, alleviating pressure on the nerves and easing soreness. To utilize this remedy, add a teaspoon of salt to around half a cup of lukewarm water. Swish the water around the mouth without gargling for one minute before spitting it out.● Chewing on Soft Foods- To further ensure comfort, you can also chewing on soft foods that won’t damage your braces. The chewing action compresses the fibers that fix the teeth and gums together (periodontal ligaments), thus pumping out the fluid accumulation that causes soreness.● Eat Berries- Not only do berries contain high levels of antioxidants, they can also substantially reduce intraoral swelling. Cherries, blackberries, blueberries and raspberries all contain natural anti-inflammatory properties which reduce soreness.● Pain Medication- While it is unlikely that orthodontic soreness will warrant over-the-counter pain medications, some patients choose to alleviate soreness this way.