Tooth and jaw corrections

Crooked teeth are usually the most obvious symptom of misaligned teeth or jaws. Other complaints that often occur in this context are

• Teeth grinding (bruxism)
• Loss of tooth enamel (often due to bruxism)
• Receding gums
• Toothache or sensitive tooth necks
• Difficulty chewing
• Headache

Misaligned teeth can result from a variety of causes. One of the most common are genetic predispositions. If parents or grandparents had dental or jaw problems, there is an increased likelihood that their offspring will develop similar problems. If milk teeth are lost early or have to be removed prematurely (e.g. due to caries), this can lead to the permanent teeth growing into the wrong position. A jaw that is too small in relation to the number of teeth or teeth that are too large can lead to overlapping and crowding. If teeth erupt too early or too late, they cannot fit properly into the row of teeth and can cause misaligned teeth.

In addition to genetic factors, your own behavior also has an influence on the position of your teeth. Missing teeth due to caries, injuries, accidents or other causes can lead to gaps in the dentition that tempt neighboring teeth to move into these gaps. Habits such as lip biting or tongue clenching can increase the pressure on the teeth and jaw and lead to misalignment. Continuous sucking on the thumb or pacifier over a longer period of time can affect the bite and alignment of the teeth and lead to malocclusion. In addition, a myofunctional disorder such as tongue dysfunction or infantile swallowing can promote malocclusion. The reason for this is the movement of the tongue during swallowing: normally, the tongue exerts pressure on the hard palate above the upper teeth. This palate is robust and can withstand this constant pressure.

However, if this natural swallowing pattern is not acquired, the tongue rests elsewhere, for example on the teeth. Sometimes more at the top, sometimes more at the bottom, occasionally also to the side. In this way, the tongue exerts pressure on the teeth, misaligning them and leading to various tooth misalignments.
Also important: Tongue dysfunction

In most cases, however, misaligned teeth can be successfully corrected or minimized if they are diagnosed and treated at an early stage.

Overbite/backbite (retrognathia): In an overbite, the upper front teeth are clearly in front of the lower front teeth. This can lead to chewing and speech problems and affect the esthetic appearance.
There is also an increased risk of anterior tooth trauma/risk of dental injuries

Prebite (progeny): In a progenic bite, the lower front teeth are further forward than the upper front teeth. This can also cause functional and esthetic problems.

Deep bite: A deep bite occurs when the upper front teeth strongly overlap the lower teeth. This can lead to signs of wear on the front teeth or bites in the palate.

Crossbite: A crossbite occurs when the upper teeth are further in than the lower teeth. This can lead to a deviation of the lower jaw to one side and thus to crooked growth of the jaw, as well as to uneven wear and jaw problems.

Open bite: An open bite occurs when the front teeth do not meet completely when the mouth is closed. This can cause difficulties in biting, chewing and speaking.

Scissor bite (buccal non-occlusion): A scissor bite occurs when the upper teeth bite past the lower teeth and the lower teeth do not meet when the mouth is closed.

Crowding: Crowding occurs when there is not enough space in the jaw for all the teeth. This can lead to tooth decay or unfavorable wear and tear of the teeth due to more difficult cleaning of the teeth.

Misaligned teeth: Misaligned teeth are teeth that are not aligned in their normal position in the jaw. This is usually caused by genetic factors.

Non-formation of permanent teeth (hypodontia): Hypodontia is a dental anomaly in which one or more permanent teeth do not form. This means that certain teeth are missing in a person’s dentition, even though they should normally be present. The most common forms of hypodontia affect the wisdom teeth (third molars) and the lateral incisors.

The treatment of tooth and jaw corrections usually begins with a comprehensive examination by our experienced orthodontists. Photos, X-rays and an intraoral scan (video technology without radiation exposure) are taken to make an accurate diagnosis. Based on the results, we create an individual treatment plan.

Removable or fixed braces are generally used to correct misaligned teeth and jaws. They are a proven means of correcting misaligned teeth. Modern braces are more comfortable and aesthetic than ever before. Transparent, removable Invisalign align ers are even more inconspicuous. In some cases, especially with severe jaw misalignments, surgery may also be necessary.

Tooth and jaw corrections are crucial to maintaining the health of your teeth and jaw. Correct tooth alignment makes it easier to chew and speak, reduces the risk of dental injuries and promotes oral hygiene. It also improves your aesthetic appearance and self-confidence.

The aim of the treatment is also to create a harmonious smile that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. The prognosis for the success of the therapy depends on various factors, including the severity of the deformities, the cooperation of the patients and the chosen treatment method. In most cases, a very good result can be achieved.

Our experienced orthodontists strive to offer individual solutions to meet the needs of our patients. If you have any questions about tooth and jaw correction or would like an examination, we will be happy to help you. Make an appointment today and take the first step towards a healthy and beautiful smile.