How can you fix a misaligned bite as an adult? Explore orthodontic treatments that fit your lifestyle and needs. Visit now!

According to the American Association of Orthodontics, more adults are seeing orthodontists than any time in history.

Misaligned bites can lead to issues with chewing, speaking, and even jaw pain. Today we're taking a closer look into orthodontic treatment options for adults, exploring solutions that cater to different needs and lifestyles.



Whether you're seeking discreet options or more traditional care, there are a variety of ways to address a misaligned bite effectively.

Misaligned Bite: Malocclusion in Adults

A misaligned bite, or malocclusion, is more than just a cosmetic issue. It can affect how you chew, speak, and even how comfortable your jaw feels throughout the day. For adults, addressing malocclusion is essential for maintaining long-term dental health and comfort.

There are three main types of malocclusion to consider:

• Overbite
• Underbite
• Crossbite

Overbite

An overbite occurs when the upper front teeth extend too far over the lower front teeth. This is one of the most common types of malocclusion in adults.

It can lead to issues like wear on the teeth, difficulty chewing, and even gum irritation. Treating an overbite often involves braces or aligners to gradually move the teeth into better alignment.

Underbite

An underbite can cause the lower jaw to look more pronounced, and it can also make it difficult to speak or chew properly. Depending on the severity, treatment for an underbite may include braces, clear aligners, or in some cases, surgery.

Crossbite

A crossbite affects how the upper and lower teeth fit together. It can cause uneven wear on your teeth, leading to potential damage over time. Treatment typically involves braces or aligners to correct the alignment and prevent further issues.

Bite Alignment Options: Traditional Braces for Adults

Traditional metal braces remain one of the most common and effective ways to correct a misaligned bite in adults. While they've been around for many years, advances in technology have made them smaller and more comfortable than they used to be.

Braces work by applying steady pressure to the teeth over time, gradually shifting them into proper alignment. It can correct severe cases of malocclusion, including overbites, underbites, and crossbites.

One advantage of traditional braces is their ability to handle complex cases that other treatments might not be able to address. They're also permanently affixed, which means they're working 24/7, without requiring the patient to remember to wear aligners.

It can lead to faster results, depending on the severity of the case. On average, treatment with braces lasts between 18 months and 3 years, depending on how much adjustment is needed.

Though traditional braces are highly effective, some adults may find the look of metal brackets less appealing. But for those who don't mind the appearance or who are dealing with more complex dental issues, braces are a reliable and trusted solution.

Clear Aligners: A Discreet Option

Clear aligners, like Invisalign, are custom-made to fit your teeth and gradually move them into place. Aligners offer a discreet way to treat common bite issues, like overbites, underbites, and crossbites.

One of the biggest advantages of clear aligners is their removability. You can take them out while eating or brushing your teeth, making them easy to maintain and less disruptive to your daily routine.

The flexibility appeals to many adults who don't want the restrictions that come with braces. Since aligners are clear, they're barely noticeable, which makes them an appealing option for working professionals or anyone conscious of their appearance.

However, clear aligners do require discipline. You need to wear them for at least 20-22 hours a day to stay on track with your treatment plan. Skipping this could extend the treatment time.

While aligners can handle many types of malocclusion, they're usually best for mild to moderate cases. More complex bite issues may still require traditional braces or other treatments. They provide a modern, less invasive way to correct bite alignment and improve dental health.

Lingual Braces: Hidden Orthodontic Care

Lingual braces are a unique option for adults who want the benefits of traditional braces but prefer a more discreet look. Unlike regular braces, lingual braces are placed on the inside of the teeth, making them nearly invisible from the outside.

This makes them appealing to adults who may feel self-conscious about wearing braces, especially in professional or social settings.

While lingual braces offer an aesthetic advantage, they can be a bit more challenging to get used to. Because they sit behind the teeth, they may cause some discomfort or irritation to the tongue, particularly in the early stages of treatment.

Speech may also be affected for a short time as your mouth adjusts to the braces. However, most people find that these issues fade after the initial adjustment period.

Another thing to keep in mind is that lingual braces can be more expensive than traditional options, due to the complexity of their design and installation.

Orthodontists need special training to apply them, and appointments may take a bit longer. Still, for adults looking for a treatment that's effective and nearly invisible, lingual braces can be a great choice. They provide the same reliable results as regular braces, while keeping your smile looking natural throughout the process.

Surgical Options for Severe Cases

For adults with severe cases of malocclusion, surgery might be recommended as a solution. Orthognathic surgery, or corrective jaw surgery, is often used when there is a significant misalignment of the jaws that braces alone cannot fix.



It usually involves repositioning the jawbones to improve the way they fit together. The goal is to correct issues like extreme overbites, underbites, or asymmetrical jaw alignment. Recovery from jaw surgery can take several weeks, and it's typically combined with orthodontic treatment before and after the procedure to ensure the best results.

Adult Orthodontic Solutions

Orthodontic treatment options for adults offer various ways to address a misaligned bite, from braces and aligners to surgery and retainers.

At Sewell Dental Designs, we prioritize your dental health and experience. Our friendly, patient-focused office in Sewell offers personalized care, not volume-based treatment. We aim to educate patients during each visit to maintain healthy teeth for life. Whether you're interested in Invisalign or routine care, we're here to help create beautiful smiles.

Get in touch today to find out how we can help fix your smile!