Can Braces Fix Jaw Alignment Problems Too?
Braces do more than straighten teeth—they can also help align the jaw and correct bite issues. Many people seek orthodontic treatment not just for aesthetic reasons, but also to address concerns like difficulty chewing, speech problems, and jaw pain caused by misalignment.
Understanding Jaw Alignment Problems
Jaw alignment refers to how your upper and lower jaws fit together. Misalignment, known as malocclusion, can occur due to genetics, thumb sucking, injury, or other developmental factors. Left untreated, these issues could lead to more serious dental or even health problems.
Common Malocclusions
Overbite
An overbite happens when the upper teeth extend too far over the lower teeth, potentially causing wear and tear on teeth or jaw discomfort.
Underbite
When the lower teeth sit in front of the upper teeth, it’s termed an underbite. This can cause issues with chewing and may impact facial symmetry.
Crossbite
A crossbite means some upper teeth sit inside the lower teeth, leading to uneven wear and potential gum problems.
Open Bite
With an open bite, the front teeth don’t touch when the mouth is closed. This can interfere with biting and cause speech issues.
Leading Orthodontic Practices Offering Invisible Braces in Aberdeen
How Do Braces Actually Work?
Braces use gentle, sustained pressure to gradually shift teeth and jawbones into proper alignment. Brackets, wires, and sometimes bands coordinate to move teeth, while additional appliances such as expanders or elastics can assist in correcting bite issues.
What Braces Can Correct on Their Own
Braces are highly effective in treating a range of jaw and bite issues, especially during the teenage years when the jaw is still developing. They can guide jaw growth, align teeth, and significantly improve bite function and appearance.
Orthodontic Measures to Improve Jaw Alignment and Appearance
In some cases, orthodontists may use headgear, elastics, or other appliances in tandem with braces to guide the jaw into proper alignment. Strategic planning and custom treatment plans can achieve impressive results, even influencing facial aesthetics.
Can Braces Improve Facial Asymmetry?
Yes, particularly when asymmetry is caused by jaw misalignment. By adjusting the position of the teeth and aiding in correct jaw placement, braces can create a more symmetrical facial appearance.
How Age and Growth Affect Treatment
Younger patients typically respond faster to treatment because their bones are still growing. However, adults can still benefit from braces, though they may require more time or supplementary treatments to achieve jaw alignment.
Can Braces Fix Jaw Problems in Teens and Adults?
Yes. While teens tend to get faster results due to ongoing jaw growth, adult treatment is still effective with tailored approaches. In adults, braces often need to work in partnership with other treatments to achieve optimal results.
When Braces Aren’t Enough: The Role of Jaw Surgery
Severe jaw alignment issues may require orthognathic surgery, especially in adults where growth has completed. This surgery, coordinated with orthodontic care, corrects structural discrepancies in the jaw for functional and aesthetic improvements.
Signs Your Child May Have a Jaw Alignment Issue
- Difficulties chewing or biting
- Speech delays or issues
- Habitually breathing through the mouth
- Snoring or teeth grinding
- A visibly imbalanced jaw or chin
Benefits of Correcting Jaw & Bite Alignment
Correct alignment doesn’t just improve smiles—it enhances speech, simplifies chewing, reduces the risk of tooth decay, and alleviates jaw pain. Long-term, it can also prevent conditions like TMJ disorders and uneven wear of enamel.
What Fort Worth Parents Care About Most
Parents often seek early orthodontic evaluation for their children. Starting treatment at the optimal time helps reduce the need for more invasive procedures later in life, ensuring a healthier smile and bite as they grow.
Start Your Jaw Alignment Journey with Visage Orthodontics
If you are experiencing bite problems, jaw discomfort, or concerns about crooked teeth, the experienced team at Visage Orthodontics is here to help. We provide personalised orthodontic assessments and tailored treatment plans, including braces in Aberdeen, designed to improve both dental function and smile appearance.
Our specialists use modern orthodontic techniques to deliver safe, effective, and comfortable treatment for patients of all ages. Whether you are considering treatment for yourself or your child, an early assessment can help prevent long-term complications and support better oral health outcomes.
Book your consultation with Visage Orthodontics today to explore your options and take the first step towards a healthier, more confident smile.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take for braces to fix a jaw problem?
On average, treatment can take anywhere from 12 to 36 months depending on the severity of the alignment issue and the patient’s age.
Can braces fix an underbite without surgery?
Yes, mild to moderate underbites can often be corrected using braces alone, especially in younger patients. Severe cases may require surgery.
Do braces change your jaw permanently?
Yes, braces can lead to lasting changes in jaw position and alignment, especially if proper retention is maintained post-treatment.
Is it ever too late to fix jaw alignment with braces?
It’s never too late. Adults of all ages can benefit from braces, though they may need additional treatments for skeletal changes.
Can braces help with jaw pain or clicking sounds?
Yes. If these symptoms are related to misalignment or bite problems, orthodontic treatment may provide significant relief.
