Does your kid complain about pain and discomfort when they speak, yawn, or eat? Chances are they have a misaligned jaw. You can also tell if your child has a misaligned jaw if their teeth are misaligned, or if the jaw produces a popping sound. A misaligned jaw can affect your child's quality of life.
For instance, chewing, speaking, and breathing can be challenging. Also, a misaligned jaw can increase the risk of tooth decay and gum diseases. In this case, it is good to consider a dentist to fix the orthodontic issues. Depending on the child's age, the severity of misalignment, and the results you want to achieve, the orthodontist may suggest treatment options such as:
Braces
Dental braces are non-invasive treatments for correcting misaligned jaws. Braces help to bring the lower and upper jaws back to their position. During the treatment, the orthodontist places brackets supported by wires over the teeth. The professional will then adjust the pressure on each tooth to move them into position. During each appointment, the orthodontist will tighten the wire to allow the jaws and teeth to move slowly into a better place.
Upper Jaw Expander
Another way to correct misaligned jaws for kids is the upper jaw expander. As the name suggests, this appliance widens the upper jaw. Usually, orthodontists recommend this treatment when the upper jaw is narrow compared to the lower jaw. This treatment also provides additional room for the eruption of teeth that may be impacted in the gums. Besides, it prevents tooth overcrowding.
Jaw Surgery
For severely misaligned jaws, the orthodontist may recommend jaw surgery. This involves a surgical procedure that moves the jaws into place. If your kid is suffering from a misaligned jaw, it can be challenging to determine the best treatment. That's why it is best to seek professional help. Our dentists will perform an exam to determine the root cause and severity of the misalignment. With this, they will create an appropriate treatment plan to improve your child's confidence and quality of life.
Office hours
Mon - Fri: 8:00AM - 5:00PM Sat: By Appointment
Location
13920 Old St Augustine Rd, Suite 103 Jacksonville, Fl 32258-5561
Does your kid complain about pain and discomfort when they speak, yawn, or eat? Chances are they have a misaligned jaw. You can also tell if your child has a misaligned jaw if their teeth are misaligned, or if the jaw produces a popping sound. A misaligned jaw can affect your child's quality of life.