How Misalignments of the Teeth Affect the Wellbeing of Children

October 1, 2023

When it comes to kids' dental, malocclusions and airway obstructions are two of the most concerning issues. If a child has a misalignment in their teeth, it can be quite detrimental to their quality of life in many ways. Below, we will discuss the potential effects of malocclusions on the younger generation.


1. Dental Issues and Cavity Occurrences


The occurrence of cavities and other dental health issues is a common problem. Many people have suffered from these issues in some way or another, whether it be through tooth decay, gum disease, or other related problems. It is important to maintain good dental hygiene in order to prevent these issues from occurring. Brushing and flossing regularly, as well as visiting the dentist every six months for a check-up, can help to ensure that your mouth is healthy and free of any problems.


Misaligned teeth can take the form of an overbite, an underbite, or a crossbite, all of which interfere with eating and speaking. When this occurs, it can lead to accelerated tooth decay in young people.


When malocclusions are present, some teeth experience increased pressure which leads to quicker wear of the enamel. A pediatric dentist will first address any cavities before discussing braces as a possible treatment.


2. Grinding of Teeth and Misalignment of the Teeth


Grinding of the teeth involuntarily is known as bruxism, and it can be triggered by stress or pain. It can happen during the day or exclusively while sleeping. The cause of bruxism is still unknown, but malocclusions are thought to be one of the major contributors.


When the teeth are not organized as they should be, the person may be driven to clench and grind due to the discomfort. Eventually, the enamel weakens from the continuous friction. This could lead to dental issues such as cavities or periodontal disease, thus compromising the child's oral health.


3. Airway Obstructions and Sleep Disturbances


Sleep disturbances and airway obstructions are closely connected. Obstructions in the airways can lead to sleep problems, while sleep-related conditions can also cause airway obstructions. Therefore, it is important to understand the relationship between these two medical conditions.


Pediatric sleep issues are a pressing matter for dentists. If left untreated, these disorders can cause physical impediments, cognitive issues, and behavioral problems.


When teeth are out of line, it can interfere with the nasal passage, making it hard to eat and breathe. Therefore, it is important to have a dental professional assess the degree of obstruction of the airways. Depending on the seriousness of the situation, a dentist might suggest the placement of dental devices through a minor in-office surgical operation.


4. Temporal Mandibular Joint Dysfunction


The Temporal Mandibular Joint (TMJ) is a common source of difficulty and can manifest in the form of a disorder.


TMJ (Temporal Mandibular Joint) Disorder is a condition of the bone that connects the lower jaw to the skull, typically brought on by strenuous activity such as chewing or talking. It is often caused by the misplacement of the jaw and teeth, which can cause stress on their nearby muscles.


It could be possible that the issues are originating from the joint suffering a trauma from an accident or even bruxism. Prior to obtaining clear braces, an examination and treatment is necessary.


5. Social Effects of Misaligned Teeth


Malocclusions can have an impact on a person's social life, as misaligned teeth can cause them to feel self-conscious or embarrassed. This can lead to low self-esteem, social anxiety, and an unwillingness to engage in conversations or activities involving others. Furthermore, these feelings can lead to a lack of confidence when speaking in public or smiling. Therefore, it is important to ensure that any malocclusions are properly addressed and corrected.


Having misalignments in the teeth and jaw can lead to social issues for the dental health of children. The aesthetics of the mouth is a concern for parents, leading them to make the decision to get braces for their kids. Kids of all ages may have low self-esteem due to malocclusions.


For those concerned with the appearance of their teeth, an orthodontist may suggest clear braces as an option. These braces are made from materials such as ceramic, making them both attractive and affordable.


If your offspring exhibits malocclusions or signs of associated ailments, it is prudent to seek a dentist's help promptly. There is no need to be embarrassed or anxious, as such dental issues are ubiquitous in children, with a quarter to half of them necessitating orthodontics. Unmanaged dental problems in kids can result in a variety of physical and psychological problems. Routine dental checkups can help to identify and tackle these problems before they become too complex to solve.


Building a strong foundation of knowledge is essential to gaining success in any field. To achieve that, it is important to have an understanding of the basics and the fundamentals of the area of study. This will provide a good basis for further exploration and development of skills and expertise.