Headaches: Is Malocclusion the Cause?

The definition of a malocclusion is the misalignment ofteeth that results in an incorrect relation between the teeth of the two dentalarches. In other words, a top tooth has a bottom tooth that it is supposed tomeet if the bite is in correct alignment or occlusion. If these teeth don’tmeet, the remedy that can solve the problem is dental braces.

If the bite is out of alignment and the top teeth do notcorrespond correctly to the bottom teeth, chewing or speaking may be impacted.But can this malocclusion cause headaches? Absolutely!

When the teeth in the two arches do not meet correctly, theybasically slide off each either during normal daily functions. Although usuallydone subconsciously, this deviation in the bite can result in clenching orgrinding the teeth. Often done during sleep, grinding and clenching can becomeso habitual that you might catch yourself doing it during your waking hours aswell.

When you clench your jaw or grind your teeth, you areputting excessive pressure on the bones and muscles. The result is a headache,jaw ache, tooth ache or neck ache. How can you tell if your headache is aresult of malocclusion or some other cause?

Your dentist can conduct a simple test where a specialcolored paper is placed between the teeth. Tapping on the paper with teeth willreveal where the teeth are hitting and missing during the biting motion. If amalocclusion is diagnosed, dental braces are a good option for correction.

Orthodontics is a great solution for a cross bite, overbiteor under bite. X-rays and dental impressions taken prior to treatment willdemonstrate exactly what is needed to correct the bite.

Dental braces slowly reposition the teeth by applying thecorrect amount of pressure over time to achieve the desired results. Once theocclusion has been corrected, patients no longer experience the teeth slidingoff each other while eating or speaking.

To keep teeth from returning to an incorrect bite, aretainer is generally worn. The length of time needed for teeth to remembertheir new correct position varies.

Once grinding and clenching has been resolved due to acorrection in your occlusion, headaches due to bite issues should cease. As anadded bonus, you now have a beautiful smile to enjoy for a lifetime.

For more information and to schedule your consultation in Long Island, contact Newman Orthodontics at 516-626-2060.

Why are retainers essential to orthodontic treatment?

At the completion of your orthodontic treatment, you may be so relieved to have the braces off, you may not be inclined to wear your retainers. If you are an adult who has worn a retainer since childhood, you may assume that the appliance is no longer necessary. Sometimes, due to unfortunate circumstances, your retainer may become lost or damaged, and you may not recognize the importance of replacing it.

There are thousands of reasons that patients may lose sight of the need to wear their retainers. As your orthodontist will tell you, retainers are indeed essential to the long-term success of your orthodontic treatment.

To appreciate the reason for ongoing retention, it may help to understand a little bit about dental anatomy. Although the teeth are anchored to the jaw bone, they are not fused directly to the bone. Instead, the roots of the teeth are held in place by microscopic ligaments or fibers that serve as tiny shock absorbers. These fibers allow the teeth to respond to biting and chewing forces without breaking.

This relationship between the teeth and the bone makes it possible for your orthodontist to reposition the teeth by applying gentle, steady force. Once the teeth have been properly positioned, they must continue to be subjected to gentle pressure (with a retainer), or there will be the tendency for them to drift out of position.

Without a retainer, the teeth will be left at the mercy of other forces that can push them into an undesirable position. The muscles of the lips, cheeks, and tongue generate constant pressure on the teeth which can be counteracted with retainers.

As the name implies, the retainer works to “retain” or preserve the position of the teeth. Failure to wear the appliance regularly for an indefinite period of time following the completion of active orthodontic treatment will hinder the process.

Many patients have reported that, after a long period without the retainer, the appliance no longer fits due to the movement of the teeth. For other patients, the retainer fits into place, but feels tight and leads to discomfort. To avoid these complications, it is recommended that the retainers be worn as directed.

If you are currently wearing a retainer, it is important to continue your good habit! If you have questions about your existing retainer or are in need of a new one in Long Island or the surrounding areas, call the orthodontic practice of Dr. Seth Newman at 516-626-2060 today for an appointment.

Orthodontic Treatment on Long Island

Orthodontic treatment procedures, apart from enhancing your smile and improving the appearance of your face, offer numerous other benefits.  By availing of advanced orthodontic treatment procedures from reliable orthodontic care clinics on Long Island, adults, teenagers and children can effectively correct their dental irregularities.

Complex Dental Abnormalities Can be Resolved

Orthodontic treatment options available on Long Island address major dental abnormalities including open bites, cross bites, over bites, under bites, protruding teeth, overcrowded teeth, crooked teeth, and extensively spaced teeth. Patients who undergo treatment benefit from a pleasant, sparkling smile and can also avoid the discomfort associated with problems such as abnormal wear of tooth surfaces, gum diseases, chewing and digestion problems and speech impairment.

Innovative Orthodontic Treatment Ensures Permanent Solutions

To provide the best orthodontic treatment solutions, orthodontists on Long Island study in detail the structure of your teeth, jaws and face by taking X-rays, photographs and bite impressions. Depending on the severity of your teeth disorder, orthodontic treatment procedures using conventional metal braces, Invisalign invisible braces or ceramic braces are recommended.

Invisalign, the innovative orthodontic treatment option, is preferred by a majority of teenagers and adults for straightening their teeth.  These clear series of aligners are designed using 3D imaging technology. The patient has to wear these aligners for about 2 weeks and then replace it with a fresh series, to speed up the teeth straightening process.

The major advantage of wearing Invisalign braces is that it is virtually invisible, and the treatment details can be kept concealed from others. Moreover, these braces are removable, so patients can eat food conveniently and also maintain excellent oral hygiene.

Consult an Expert Orthodontist

When planning to go for orthodontic treatment, see that you utilize the services of skilled orthodontists on Long Island. It would be beneficial to have a discussion with your specialist about your requirements and the final results expected from the treatment. The orthodontist can then utilize the most appropriate treatment options that would provide excellent outcomes. For a free consultation please call Newman Orthodontics at (516) 626-2060.

Am I Still a Candidate for Invisalign if I’ve had Braces?

It is absolutely acceptable and sometimes necessary to repeat orthodontic treatment even years after the braces have been removed. Often, patients who have completed the orthodontic process with traditional braces as a teen or a child may have a need for further treatment as an adult.

 If you have noticed that the teeth have shifted out of position, you may wish to have them realigned in order to produce a more esthetic and uniform smile. As an adult, however, you may be unwilling to undergo the traditional treatment that includes metal braces and brackets.

The Invisalign procedure offers an effective and comfortable alternative to the traditional method. Your orthodontist can utilize a series of customized aligners to realign your teeth. These clear aligners are discreet and virtually invisible to those around you, allowing you to protect your privacy and project a more professional appearance.

The duration of your treatment and the number of aligners that will be required will need to be determined by your orthodontist. In many cases, a limited treatment may be recommended, lasting anywhere from a few months to a year. In fact, as an Invisalign patient, you will hold much of the success of your treatment in the palm of your hand. Adhering to your orthodontist’s instructions and wearing your aligners as recommended can significantly shorten the treatment period.

If you recall a less than pleasurable experience with braces, you may be hesitant to proceed with Invisalign. But, fear not! Your experience with Invisalign can be far more comfortable than the braces that linger in your memory.

Your new aligners will not pinch or irritate your soft tissue. They are fabricated from a smooth, lightweight plastic that has been contoured to your anatomy. Although these aligners should be worn 24 hours each day, they can be removed for eating and drinking. You will also be permitted to remove the aligners for brushing and flossing after meals.

Whether you have had braces in the past or you are a first-time orthodontic patient, you can still be a candidate for the Invisalign procedure. Call Newman Orthodontics, serving Long Island, for an appointment today to discuss your options.