Every person has a different kind of facial structure. The cause for this differentiation is the shape of one’s jaws and teeth. The growth of jaws and teeth is the most affected aspect during a child’s growing years. A child’s daily habits and the kind of care it receives decide the shape of the jaw and teeth. If the child has a thumb sucking habit, the jaws might get deformed due to the pressure of the thumb and cheeks. Deformity of the jaw or the misalignment of the upper and lower teeth is known as malocclusion in cosmetic dentistry. The treatments and solutions to this abnormality of the jaw are collectively termed as orthodontics.

What is orthodontics?

The specialty in the field of dentistry that deals with the misalignment of teeth or abnormal jaw structures is known as orthodontics or dentofacial orthopedics. Orthodontics has been derived from two Greek words ortho (correct or straighten) and odont (tooth). The field of orthodontics was established by pioneering orthodontists like Edward Angle and Norman William Kingsley. Orthodontics, as we know, deals with the treatment of the abnormality of the jaw structure. People who suffer from misaligned teeth or abnormal jaw structure can find help with an orthodontic treatment. Malocclusions make it harder for people to find confidence because of the appearance of their teeth or jaw. Such people can benefit from an orthodontic treatment.

How does orthodontics deal with malocclusions?

Orthodontics is related to cosmetic dentistry as it deals with the abnormality in the facial structure of patients. Orthodontics is the use of certain dental appliances to guide the growth of teeth to correct the facial structure. Dental devices are used to fix the teeth at a certain angle and then the devices are altered to adjust the shape of the teeth or jaws as they adapt. If the misalignment of the jaws or teeth is beyond the capabilities of a dental device, the orthodontist may have to perform an orthognathic surgery to reshape the jaw or align the teeth so the upper and lower teeth meet perfectly as they bite.

If you’re unsatisfied with the shape of your jaw or alignment of your teeth, visit Edmonton Smiles and we will discuss your options..