Bite misalignment problems happen to be one of the most common issues we see in our Metairie, LA, practice. If our orthodontist, Dr. Celeste Block, determines that you have an uneven bite, she will recommend a treatment for you based on your unique condition.
There are many types of bite problems, such as overbites, underbites, and crossbites, that require orthodontic correction. An uneven bite can cause many problems that are important to address early, including
- Jaw pain
- Poor oral health (damaged enamel, tooth decay, bad breath, or tooth loss)
- Difficulty brushing or flossing
- Gum disease
- Speech issues
- Facial pain
- TMJ pain
Thankfully, advances in orthodontic appliances have made correcting bite problems easier than ever. Devices such as the Herbst appliance and the use of elastics have made it so that your treatment can often be completed without headgear! Your orthodontist will determine the type of bite correction method that’s just right for correcting your condition.
Correcting Bite Misalignment
Simple elastic bands in combination with braces can make small adjustments to the bite by guiding the jaw into a new alignment. Appliances that fit inside the mouth and are not removable, like the Herbst appliance, are often used to correct more severe bite problems.
- The Herbst appliance is placed on the back molars using a metal connector piece between your upper and lower jaw. Once the Herbst appliance is placed, the patient is only able to close their mouth with their jaw in the new, correct position imposed by the appliance. Because the Herbst appliance is not removable, it ensures consistent use and can even speed up the treatment process.
- Elastics work similarly to the Herbst appliance but are completely removable. Your elastics should be worn 24 hours a day and should only be removed when you are brushing, flossing, or replacing your elastics with new ones. Elastics should be changed at least every 12 hours to ensure proper elasticity and tension.
Bite Correction in Metairie, LA
Dr. Block is an expert at a wide variety of bite correction techniques, including the use of the Herbst appliance. If you or your child suffers from an overbite, underbite, or crossbite, or has difficulty closing his/her mouth and chewing foods properly, orthodontic treatment at Old Metairie Orthodontics may be able to correct the problem. We encourage you to contact our Metairie, LA, practice for more information and to schedule a complimentary consultation with Dr. Block.
