Malocclusion
At Fulmer Dentistry, we pride ourselves on providing exceptional care to every patient, especially our littlest ones. Every exam includes a thorough diagnosis of the child’s teeth and occlusion.
Like many parents, you may be wondering if your child’s teeth are erupting properly and into a healthy position. You may also question if braces will be necessary to correct their bite. The formation and placement of teeth is influenced by several factors. Some risk factors are preventable (like thumb sucking) and others are simply due to genetics.
Every exam includes a thorough diagnosis of the child’s teeth and occlusion. Malocclusion is created when the teeth don’t align properly, due to a jaw issue, crowded teeth or, conversely, too much space in between the teeth. Early diagnosis of malocclusion results in the most successful outcome for all patients. Click below to view the risk factors, symptoms and treatment of malocclusion.
- Risk Factors leading to Malocclusion:
- Genetics
- Dental trauma
- Mouth Breathing
- Oral habits (Thumb sucking or pacifier use past the age of 4)
- Poor dental care
Our team has resources and tips available for all patients.
- Symptoms:
- Crowded Teeth
- Overbite, Underbite, Open bite, Cross bite
- Alteration in the appearance of the face
- Eating difficulties
- Breathing difficulties
- Speech problems
- Gum disease
- TMJ disorders
Dr. Jim and Dr. Kaleigh Fulmer can discuss these symptoms with you and answer any questions you may have.
- Treatments:
- Mild malocclusion: Frequently, no treatment is necessary. When the baby teeth are lost and the permanent teeth erupt, the tooth alignment may self correct on its own. In cases where it is obvious the malocclusion will not correct itself, or if the malocclusion still exists after eruption of the permanent teeth, braces may be the treatment of choice.
- Moderate malocclusion: These malocclusions are often corrected through braces, mouth appliances, or minor reshaping of teeth. Treatment for moderate cases is often completed in more than one phase.
- Severe malocclusion: Most cases will be treated with surgical intervention when the child gets older. Treatment for severe cases is also often completed in more than one phase.
The goal of treatment is to straighten and align the teeth to improve function, create healthy jaw joints, and maximize esthetics. Treatment will dependent on the symptoms, age, and severity of the child’s malocclusion.
Dr. Jim Fulmer and Dr. Kaleigh Fulmer are highly trained dentists and understand the importance of the health of your children. They want to assure you that your children will have the utmost care at Fulmer Dentistry.
To discuss your child’s occlusion, please call our Kenosha office at 262-657-5408 or Paddock Lake at 262-843-4643. We welcome your call and thank you for entrusting your dental care to our dedicated, caring and knowledgeable team!