Let’s Talk About Orthodontics And Myofunctional Therapy
What Is Orthodontics?
Orthodontics is a specialized branch of dentistry that deals with diagnosing, preventing, managing, and correcting teeth and jaws that are not positioned correctly (malocclusion). Orthodontics corrects and treats malocclusions so the patient can have a correct bite and straight, healthy teeth.
What Is Malocclusion?
When your upper and lower teeth come together, they should fit naturally. Your upper front teeth should sit slightly in front of your lower front teeth, and the pointed ends of your upper teeth should fit between two bottom teeth. Malocclusion is when the upper and lower teeth do not fit together correctly.
Orthodontic Treatment
Orthodontic treatment is for anyone who wants to improve their smile as well as their oral health by straightening their teeth and correcting their bite. Here at Centreville Family Dentistry, we use clear aligners to correct malocclusion. Clear aligners are a more aesthetically pleasing alternative to metal braces. They work for simple and more complex cases and are specifically for teens and adults.
What Is Myofunctional Therapy?
Myofunctional Therapy is a treatment that uses a combination of physical therapy exercises and removable appliances with the goal of improving your bite, moving your teeth, and improving sleep and breathing. Treatment is customized based on age and specific symptoms.
Who Is Myofunctional Therapy For?
Myofunctinoal therapy is used for patients who have been diagnosed with orofacial myofunctional disorders (OMDs). An OMD occurs when there is abnormal development of the face, mouth, and tongue, leading to lip, jaw, and tongue placement issues.
How Do OMDs Affect Overall Well-being?
OMDs affect all aspects of a patient’s life and health. They can negatively impact chewing, swallowing, and talking, and they can affect your jaw movement, your oral health, and the way your face looks.
Signs to Look Out for
If you have noticed any of the following in yourself or a loved one, you should come in for a consultation:
- Misaligned teeth
- Tongue thrusting
- Teeth-grinding
- Facial pain
- Speech problems
- Mouth breathing
- Sleep apnea
Oral health care is one step in taking care of yourself, and we want to be a part of it. If you have questions about orthodontics or myofunctional therapy or need to schedule a checkup, contact our office located in Centreville, MI. We are here to help you achieve your health goals.
