Hereditary (genetic) factors directly influence growth and development of the upper and lower jaws SEPARATELY. The skull is one bone, and the mandible (lower jaw) is an entirely separate bone, derived from a different hereditary source. Sometimes growth between the two jaws does not match due to a mismatch of these two hereditary growth factors. There can be variances in widths in growths of the jaws.
When the lower jaw is SHORT in relation to the upper jaw, relative protrusion of the upper front teeth is the result. The upper front teeth are usually in correction positions in relation to the upper jaw and face. The problem is that the lower jaw is short by comparison, and has always been short since embryonic development started. One jaw has not grown more or less than the other jaw. The relative balance between the two jaws was never correct.
When the lower jaw is too LONG in relation to the upper jaw, “underbite” is the result. If the upper jaw has not grown ENOUGH in length and width, underbite is still the result, but for a different reason.
Surgical correction of the relative imbalances of growth between the jaws is necessary to be combined with orthodontic treatment because there isn’t sufficient bone to move the teeth in one jaw enough to match the other jaw.
Usually, braces are worn for a period of twelve months prior to orthognathic surgery to adjust the teeth so they will fit together, upper and lower, when the surgical correction of the jaws is done. The braces are used to help stabilize the healing bone following surgery. Also, it is usually necessary to wear braces six to eight months following orthodontic surgery to adjust the teeth to match properly.
The next step is to visit an orthognathic surgeon, an oral surgeon who has had specialized training in surgery of the jaws. The surgeon’s office will file insurance for the recommended care. Placement of braces will follow insurance approval and/or the proper financial arrangements made for the complete treatment, surgery plus braces.
We know you have a choice when choosing a dentist or orthodontist in Oklahoma City, Midwest City, Moore, Yukon, Norman, Tulsa, Dallas, Edmond, Highland Village, and Phoenix and we thank you for making Dental Depot your partner in good oral health!
Your Friend,
Smiley O’Riley®
Tissue stripping can also be caused by chronic gum irritation from food debris left on the gum margins of the teeth. It is imperative that special attention be given to careful and total removal of all food debris from all surfaces of the teeth every 24 hours, and especially in the area of tissue stripping as infection will worsen the amount of tissue lost.
Mouth breathing also causes airborne bacteria, viruses, pollen, and dust to be directly inhaled into the lungs. The natural filtering action of the nasal passages is lost, and the person is prone to upper respiratory infections.