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Can braces be used for bite correction?
Braces are orthodontic devices used to straighten teeth, improve bite alignment, and support long-term oral health. Many people start treatment to correct crooked or crowded teeth, but a common question often arises: Can braces also fix jaw alignment problems as well as crooked teeth?
In short, braces mainly move teeth, but they can also play an important role in guiding jaw positioning and improving bite function. This is especially true for younger patients whose jaws are still developing. For adults, braces can still support bite correction, although more serious skeletal issues might need a combined treatment approach. Every case is different, so a personalized consultation with an orthodontist is essential.
Understanding Jaw Alignment Problems
Jaw alignment problems, also known as bite issues or malocclusions, happen when the upper and lower teeth do not align properly. These issues differ from crooked teeth, which mainly relate to the position and spacing of individual teeth. Instead, jaw alignment concerns focus on how well the upper and lower jaws fit together.
Common jaw alignment issues include:
Overbite
An overbite happens when the upper front teeth overlap the lower front teeth more than usual. Mild cases may be related to tooth positioning, while more severe overbites could involve issues with the jaw structure.
Underbite
An underbite occurs when the lower teeth extend in front of the upper teeth. This can often be corrected with braces, especially in younger patients, though severe skeletal underbites may require additional treatment.
Crossbite
A crossbite occurs when certain upper teeth are positioned inside the lower teeth instead of outside, which can impact chewing and lead to uneven wear.
Open Bite
An open bite occurs when the upper and lower teeth don't touch when the mouth is closed, resulting in a visible gap.
These problems can impact chewing, speech, oral health, and facial balance. For many people, braces are essential for improving bite alignment, but the specific approach depends on the patient’s age and the severity of the misalignment.
How Braces Help Improve Jaw Alignment
Braces are carefully created to guide teeth into healthier positions over time. Brackets are bonded to the teeth and connected with a thin archwire, which applies gentle, steady pressure. As adjustments are made over time, the teeth gradually move. Proper tooth alignment helps develop a more balanced bite and, in some situations, can encourage the jaw to settle into a more centered position.
Elastics (small rubber bands) are commonly used with braces for bite correction, applying targeted force to help the upper and lower teeth fit together more smoothly. For example, a patient with a mild underbite may wear elastics to help align the upper and lower jaws more effectively.
What Braces Can Correct
Braces can help correct mild to moderate overbites, underbites related to tooth position, crossbites caused by dental misalignment, and open bites linked to improper tooth placement.
Because braces affect both the teeth and how the bite functions, they can help improve jaw alignment without requiring additional treatments. This is especially true for children and teens, whose jaws are still growing.
When Additional Treatment Is Needed
While braces are effective for many bite issues, some cases require a combined approach:
For Growing Patients:
- Palatal expanders or functional appliances may be used to guide jaw development and widen the upper jaw during childhood and adolescence.
For Severe Skeletal Issues:
- In cases of significant jaw discrepancies, particularly in adults whose jaws have finished growing, braces alone may not be sufficient. Orthognathic (jaw) surgery combined with orthodontic treatment may be recommended to achieve optimal results.
Can braces improve facial asymmetry?
Some facial asymmetry stems from dental or bite problems. When teeth are misaligned, the jaw may shift to one side to compensate. In these situations, orthodontic treatment can help enhance facial balance by correcting the bite and allowing the jaw to function more symmetrically.
However, skeletal asymmetry, where the jaw bones themselves are uneven, typically requires combined orthodontic and surgical treatment. An orthodontic evaluation will determine whether your facial asymmetry is caused by dental or skeletal issues.
Benefits of Correcting Jaw & Bite Alignment
Proper jaw alignment provides benefits beyond appearance. Patients often experience:
- Improved chewing and digestion
- Clearer speech
- Better long-term tooth and gum health
- A more balanced facial profile
- Reduced risks of uneven tooth wear
Straightening crooked teeth and improving the way the jaws meet can support lasting oral health and overall comfort.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take for braces to fix a jaw problem?
Treatment time varies significantly based on the type and severity of the bite issue. Your orthodontist will provide a detailed timeline during your consultation.
Can braces fix an underbite without surgery?
Yes, in many mild to moderate cases, particularly among younger patients. Braces, combined with elastics, can effectively correct underbites caused by misaligned teeth. However, severe skeletal underbites typically require surgical intervention for complete correction.
Your Next Step: A Personalized Orthodontic Consultation
Jaw alignment is a complex subject, and no two patients are alike. At Village Orthodontics, our team offers personalized orthodontic care throughout Southern Ontario, with various braces options, clear aligners, family-friendly environments, and flexible payment plans. We offer complimentary consultations, and no referral is required.
If you're wondering whether braces for jaw alignment, braces for bite correction, or other orthodontic options are right for you, we’re here to help. A one-on-one consultation is the best way to understand your choices and create a treatment plan tailored to your goals.