Bite problems can take different forms: tooth spacing, crooked teeth, underbite, open bite, deep bite, and crossbite. These bite issues can lead to serious consequences, from dental wear and tear to tooth decay. That’s why it is important to prevent or tackle bite problems with various treatments.
How to Prevent Bite Problems
While genetics may play a role, proactive measures can mitigate the risk of bite problems in your child:
● Nutrient-Rich Pregnancy Diet: Prioritize fluoride and calcium-rich foods during pregnancy to support healthy dental development in the womb.
● Orthopedic Nipples: Opt for specialized nipples to encourage proper jaw alignment during artificial feeding, reducing the risk of future issues.
● Introduce Chewy Foods: Incorporate nutrient-dense foods like carrots and nuts into your child's diet to strengthen jaw muscles and promote dental alignment.
● Monitor Breathing: Keep an eye on your child's breathing patterns, as nasal obstructions can affect oral development.
● Regular Dental Check-Ups: Schedule biannual dental visits for early detection and intervention of any emerging issues.
● Early Detection and Intervention: Your child's healthcare provider can often identify signs of malocclusion through a comprehensive health history and physical examination. They may then refer your child to a dentist or orthodontist for further evaluation and treatment.
Treatment Options for Bite Problems
From non-invasive techniques like myotherapy to surgical interventions for severe cases, there are solutions tailored to meet the diverse needs of young patients.
Myotherapy
Myotherapy is a comfortable and non-invasive technique for correcting malocclusion without the need for braces. It involves special exercises designed to train your child’s facial and chewing muscles, promoting proper alignment of the teeth and jaws.
Myotherapy can be initiated as early as four years old, making it suitable for young children. However, adult supervision and guidance are essential during therapy sessions to ensure effectiveness.
Hardware Devices
Hardware devices, such as trainers and records, offer effective solutions for bite correction in children as young as six years old. These devices come in removable or fixed types, depending on the degree of curvature and individual needs.
Removable devices allow easy removal during eating, brushing, and sleeping, while fixed devices require constant wear throughout the day.
Trainers are temporary devices worn for a few hours daily. They address tooth crowding or the development of gaps between them.
Braces are typically installed on permanent teeth when your child reaches the age of 12. However, timely intervention with exercises and corrective devices may help resolve bite problems before this age.
Surgical Intervention
In severe cases of malocclusion, particularly those associated with significant abnormalities in tooth and jaw alignment, surgical intervention may be necessary.
At The Family Dental Center, our team of orthodontic specialists looks forward to helping you maintain your child’s oral health. Contact us today!