How an Orthodontist Can Help Improve Speech and Chewing Through Bite Correction

Orthodontics Phoenix, AZ

Oral health is foundational to good overall health. Through the help of an orthodontist and bite correction, difficulties with chewing or speaking can be overcome. The inability to ingest food or clearly articulate impacts both physical and mental health. Bite correction has the potential to change the course of an individual’s health and wellness.

Impact of bite alignment

Changes in tooth alignment occur as the bone structure grows during adolescence and adulthood. As an individual grows older, the mouth's structure in both the upper and lower jaws should have the same U-shaped arch. As these arches align, the front teeth will rest comfortably on top of the lower teeth, though they will extend slightly beyond the bottom teeth. When the jaws do not line up correctly or when the adult teeth do not grow in properly, it can lead to oral health problems, create discomfort, and impede speech or chewing activities.

Types of bites

When the jaws are not properly aligned, it could lead to one of three types of bites. These are:

  • Underbite (front teeth are tucked behind the front bottom teeth)
  • Overbite (front teeth significantly overhang the bottom front teeth)
  • Crossbite (individual teeth rest at a variety of angles through the mouth)

Malocclusion, or a misaligned bite when the jaw is closed, can affect one’s life, particularly in key life skills like eating and chewing.

Types of problems

Crooked teeth can make it harder to chew, causing discomfort and pain if not taken care of. Grinding and clenching can occur, which can cause premature tooth loss, broken teeth, or worn gums. Misalignment can strain the temporomandibular joint, creating cracking sounds when eating or speaking, frequent headaches, or severe jaw pain.

Speech difficulties can also come from poor tooth alignment, as the teeth are a crucial part of the speech process. Teeth that are twisted, overlapped, or crooked alter the way the tongue moves during speech. This can sometimes create a whistling noise as air passes between the teeth or cause the sounds to appear slurred. 

Treatment through bite correction

The treatment used to address alignment or spacing problems with the teeth is termed bite correction. A consultation with an orthodontist will clarify what solution is best for a patient's situation. Upper and lower jaw alignment can often be corrected non-surgically through braces, either with the traditional metal brackets or clear aligner trays.

Appliances are fitted to the teeth and apply pressure to expand the jaw and slowly realign teeth into the desired position. Bands or extenders that connect the upper and lower appliances help pull the jaw into alignment. Brackets and aligners also slowly move crooked teeth into a uniform line without gaps or spacing problems. The severity of the condition determines how long appliances are worn, but plans can often take six months or longer to help ensure the teeth and jaw safely shift into new positions.

Conclusion

Orthodontics often uses pressure and special appliances to gently reposition teeth. Schedule a consultation to find out more about the treatment options that can help improve your speech or chewing patterns.

Request an appointment here: https://nettsmiles.com or call Nett Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics at (623) 759-7658 for an appointment in our Phoenix office.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Orthodontist in Phoenix, AZ.

Recent Posts

Pediatric Dentistry: Dental Restorations And Cavities

Tooth decay is one of the most common issues pediatric dentistry deals with. It is an oral problem that affects children and adults, but the former are more susceptible to it for several reasons.For starters, children have thinner layers of enamel which makes their baby teeth more vulnerable to decay. A child is also more…

Pediatric Dental Benefits Of Calcium And Vitamins For Kids’ Teeth

Calcium and vitamins have important pediatric dental benefits for your child. They help their bones grow and develop, as well as help with their tooth development. Besides brushing and flossing regularly, children also need to have balanced nutrition for healthy teeth and gums. This article covers the importance of calcium and vitamins, so parents can…

Pediatric Dentistry Tips For Teaching Your Kids Good Dental Habits

One of the goals of pediatric dentistry is to make sure kids understand the value of oral health. This is possible with the help of parents or guardians. First-time parents can consult the pediatric dentist about what to do. If you want to know how to teach your kids proper oral hygiene habits, here are…

Ask A Pediatric Dentist - What To Do If A Baby Tooth Is Knocked Out

Your pediatric dentist can help if your child loses a baby tooth at an unexpected time. This type of dental issue is common. Almost anything can knock out a baby tooth. Playing with a ball, falling from a bike, or even running in the yard can cause trauma to the child’s face. If you want…

Recent Posts

Pediatric Dentistry: Dental Restorations And Cavities

Pediatric Dentistry: Dental Restorations And Cavities

Tooth decay is one of the most common issues pediatric dentistry deals with. It is an oral problem that affects children and adults, but the former are more susceptible to it for several reasons.For starters, children have thinner layers of enamel which makes their baby teeth more vulnerable to decay. A child is also more…

Pediatric Dental Benefits Of Calcium And Vitamins For Kids’ Teeth

Pediatric Dental Benefits Of Calcium And Vitamins For Kids’ Teeth

Calcium and vitamins have important pediatric dental benefits for your child. They help their bones grow and develop, as well as help with their tooth development. Besides brushing and flossing regularly, children also need to have balanced nutrition for healthy teeth and gums. This article covers the importance of calcium and vitamins, so parents can…