Malocclusion in children is a problem that affects an increasing number of toddlers. Misalignment of teeth and jaws can lead to serious health, aesthetic and psychological consequences. Early detection and treatment of malocclusion is key to ensuring a child’s proper development and a beautiful smile in the future.
What are malocclusions?
Malocclusion is any deviation from the correct alignment of the teeth and jaws. In an ideal bite, the upper teeth slightly overlap the lower teeth, and the upper and lower incisors are in contact with each other. Any deviation from this norm can be considered a malocclusion.
Types of malocclusion in children:
Malocclusion can be divided into several main categories:
- Vertical bite defects:
- Deep bite: The upper teeth overlap the lower teeth excessively.
- Open bite: No contact between upper and lower teeth.
- Anterior Tricuspid: The mandible is set back relative to the upper jaw.
- Forebite: The mandible is protruded relative to the upper jaw.
- Transverse bite defects:
- Crossbite: Lower teeth overlap upper teeth on one or both sides.
- Sagittal malocclusion:
- Teeth crowding: Teeth are crowded and overlapping.
- Gaps between teeth (diastemas): Gaps between teeth that are too large.
Causes of malocclusion:
The causes of malocclusion in children are varied. These include:
- Genetic factors: inheritance of a predisposition to malocclusion from parents.
- Environmental factors:
- Finger or pacifier sucking habits: prolonged thumb or pacifier sucking can lead to jaw and bite deformities.
- Breathing through the mouth: Impaired breathing through the nose can affect jaw development and lead to malocclusion.
- Abnormal swallowing: Swallowing with the tongue pushed forward can affect the alignment of teeth.
- Losing milk teeth too early: Premature loss of milk teeth can disrupt the development of permanent teeth.
- Injuries: injuries to the jaw or teeth can lead to malocclusion.
- Diseases: Some diseases, such as cleft palate, can affect bite development.
Symptoms of malocclusion in children:
Malocclusion in children can manifest itself in a variety of symptoms. These include:
- Visible abnormalities in tooth alignment: crowding, gaps, crooked teeth.
- Difficulty biting and chewing food.
- Speech problems: Seplenia, slurred speech.
- Headaches and jaw pain.
- Snoring and sleep apnea.
- Postural Defects.
- Facial asymmetry.
Diagnosis of malocclusion:
Early detection of malocclusion is crucial for successful treatment. Diagnosis of malocclusion is carried out by an orthodontist. The examination includes:
- Interview with parents: the doctor collects information about the child’s health history, habits and genetic burden.
- Clinical examination: the doctor evaluates the alignment of the teeth, jaws and face.
- Analysis of diagnostic models: Based on impressions of the teeth, the dentist makes plaster models for a thorough analysis of the bite.
- X-rays: X-rays (pantomogram, cephalogram) allow us to assess the development of facial bones and teeth.
Treatment of malocclusion:
Treatment of malocclusion in children depends on the type of defect, the age of the child and the severity of the problem. The available treatments are:
- Orthodontic braces: Removable or fixed orthodontic appliances are used to correct the alignment of teeth and jaws.
- Functional braces: Functional braces affect the growth and development of facial bones.
- Myofunctional exercises: Myofunctional exercises are designed to strengthen facial muscles and improve oral function.
- Surgical treatment: In some cases, surgical treatment of malocclusion may be necessary.
Prevention of malocclusion:
Prevention of malocclusion in children should begin in infancy. It is important to:
- Avoid prolonged pacifier and finger sucking.
- Encourage the child to breathe through the nose.
- Control the development of deciduous and permanent teeth.
- Visit the dentist and orthodontist regularly.
- Provide the child with a proper diet rich in vitamins and minerals.
Early treatment of malocclusion – the key to success
Early detection and treatment of malocclusion in children is extremely important. The earlier treatment begins, the greater the chance of achieving lasting and satisfactory results. Untreated malocclusion can lead to serious health, aesthetic and psychological problems.
Remember that a healthy and beautiful smile is not only a matter of aesthetics, but also a matter of your child’s health and well-being. Therefore, it is important to take care of your toddler’s oral hygiene and regularly check the condition of his teeth. If you have any doubts, contact your dentist or orthodontist.
