Malocclusions

Malocclusions Frisco, TX

Malocclusions are abnormal alignments of the teeth and jaw that can cause various dental issues. Bite problems and uneven teeth can increase the risk of decay, tooth fracture, and uneven wear and affect the jaw and chin’s appearance. Fortunately, orthodontic dentistry can help resolve such malocclusions.

We offer orthodontic treatment at Price Family Orthodontics in Frisco and the surrounding area to treat malocclusions. Our team offers a wide range of options to help patients achieve straighter smiles. Call us today at (214) 383-0954 to learn more about our services or schedule an appointment.

Signs and Symptoms of Malocclusions

Malocclusions are often inherited. However, other factors can play a role in misaligned teeth and jaws, such as a lack of calcium and nutrients during development that adversely affects bone growth and mouth breathing. Extended thumb-sucking, bottle-feeding, and pacifier use can also contribute to abnormal teeth and jaw positioning.

Symptoms of malocclusions can range from mild to severe. Some common symptoms include:

  • Changes in facial appearance
  • Grinding or clenching teeth
  • Headaches
  • Jaw pain
  • Speech difficulties
  • Trouble chewing

Diagnosing Malocclusions

During an examination, we will check the patient’s teeth and jaw for malocclusions. This process involves looking for dental problems linked to malocclusions, such as uneven wear-and-tear, enamel erosion, and tooth sensitivity. We may also take X-rays and analyze the patient’s jaw when opened, closed, and clenched to measure their bite.

There are three categories of malocclusions. Class I bites are the most common. People with this type of classification have a normal bite and mild misalignment. Severe overbites where the upper teeth and jaw overlap the bottom as categorized as class II bites. Class III bites include severe underbites that cause the lower jaw to protrude forward. Our orthodontic team can diagnose malocclusions and classify the type and severity to develop the optimal treatment plan.

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    Preventing Malocclusions

    Preventing malocclusions may be difficult since people are often genetically disposed to them. However, parents can help prevent issues caused by environmental factors by helping their children establish healthy habits. Parents should limit bottle feeding, thumb-sucking, and pacifier use. It is best to wean children off bottles and pacifiers by age two to prevent more severe orthodontic problems in the future.

    The American Association of Orthodontics (AAO) recommends that children have their first orthodontic appointment by age seven. Early detection and intervention can resolve many orthodontic problems. Children who receive early orthodontic treatment can prevent problems from developing, eliminate the cause, guide proper facial and bone growth, and ensure enough space opens for the permanent teeth to erupt.

    The Initial Orthodontic Appointment

    Orthodontic evaluations allow patients to discuss their smile goals, concerns, and preferences. Our team will examine the patient’s teeth and take any necessary measurements, X-rays, photos, and impressions. This in-depth assessment will allow us to determine the possible treatment options and develop the right plan for each patient’s unique needs.

    We will also discuss the treatment process and provide patients with an estimate of their treatment length. The length of treatment will depend on various factors such as age, the type of malocclusion, and the type of orthodontic appliance used. The more complex the malocclusion, the longer the treatment process may take.

    Malocclusion Treatment Options

    There are more orthodontic treatment options than ever to treat malocclusions. Some common options include clear aligners or braces. There are also various types of braces, such as lingual, self-ligating, ceramic, and conventional ones. In some cases, patients may require supplemental appliances such as headgear or palate expanders to aid the treatment process. People interested in orthodontic treatment should contact our office to learn about our available treatment options.

    After orthodontic treatment, most patients will have to use a retainer. These appliances will help hold newly aligned teeth in place and prevent them from shifting. Patients must continue to receive regular dental exams after orthodontic treatment and maintain proper dental hygiene.

    Call Us Today

    Malocclusions can cause many issues, from decay to uneven jawlines. Price Family Orthodontics has the orthodontic care to treat your malocclusions. Call us at 214-383-0954 to learn more about our services or schedule an appointment.

    FAQs

    Frequently Asked Questions

    In a healthy bite, the upper teeth fit just over the lower teeth. However, in some patients, the lower jaw may push forward or slides back. Others patients may have a crossbite. This condition causes the jaw to slide to one side. Jaw misalignments are known as malocclusion.

    Young patients may develop a speech impediment like a lisp. Malocclusions can also lead to tooth crowding, and over time, plaque may build up. Patients with malocclusion are at a higher risk of tooth decay. Sometimes, malocclusion patients notice changes in their jaw’s appearance. Patients may feel self-conscious about crooked or misaligned facial features. Treatment can help align the jaw and improve facial symmetry.

    A bad bite can lead to uneven wear patterns. Over time, uneven wear may trigger tooth fractures and sensitivity. Some patients also develop gum problems. Patients with bite problems can develop crooked teeth, too. Food particles often become trapped within these crevices. These patients are at a higher risk of plaque, decay, and gum disease.

    Braces move teeth by applying constant pressure over time. This force slowly moves the teeth into position over time. Patients’ jaws will also gradually change to give in to this pressure.

    Treatment costs can vary depending on the type of treatment, insurance, and more. Every insurance plan is different. People should contact their insurance provider for more coverage information before seeking treatment.

    Quality Orthodontic Services Can Transform Smiles

    By visiting us as soon as possible, our team can help get you the professional treatment you need.

    Definition

    Definition of Orthodontic Terminology

    Headgear

    Headgear is an orthodontic appliance that aids in bite correction and proper jaw growth and alignment.

    Intermediate Tooth Alignment

    Intermediate tooth alignment is the process in which an orthodontic device gradually adjusts the position of the teeth and straightens them.

    Jawbone

    The jawbone is the upper and lower jaw of the mouth that move opposite each other to facilitate chewing.

    Malocclusion

    Malocclusion is the condition in which the upper and lower teeth do not meet properly when the bite is closed. Conditions of malocclusion can include overbite, underbite, crossbite and open bite; all of which are treatable with Invisalign®.

    Occlusion

    Occlusion is the way the teeth meet when the upper and lower jaw come together.

    Orthodontics

    Orthodontics is the specialty branch of dentistry that deals with preventing and correcting teeth and jaw irregularities.

    Orthodontist

    An orthodontist is a dentist who is specially qualified to diagnose, prevent, and treat any irregularities of the teeth and jaw.

    Teeth Crowding

    Teeth crowding is a lack of space in the mouth for all of the teeth to grow properly, leading to the need to extract some of the teeth.

    Teeth-Straightening Treatment

    Any treatment done with the intent of straightening the teeth or correcting a misaligned jaw.

    Tooth Alignment

    Tooth alignment refers to how closely or widely spread apart the teeth are from each other.

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    Testimonials

    Trusted Orthodontic Patient Reviews

    I have recently completed my orthodontic treatment with Dr. Brandon Price and his team at Price Family Orthodontics, and I could not be happier with the results! This was my second time around with braces (after a problem with my retainers resulted in my teeth shifting back), and from my first visit to the office, I could tell this was going to be a very different experience. In other offices where I had consultations, I felt I was viewed as nothing more than a pile of dollars. Dr. Price, however, made me feel my treatment and satisfaction were going to be as important to him as they were to me.

    Having been a middle school teacher for the past 15 years, I am constantly around students wearing braces. A conversation with one of those students convinced me that I should take the plunge and get myself some ‘real’ braces, since I wore Invisalign the first time. I have seen many different approaches for interacting with children during my time as an educator, some being more effective than others. A relatable style for working with kids is a special gift, and I truly believe it could be said that you either ‘have it’ or you don’t…

    On many occasions, I’ve sat in the chair next to kids as Dr. Price worked, and I’ve always been impressed with the rapport he has with them. To some people, this might seem trivial compared to the quality of the orthodontic work itself, but as a father, I know I only want professionals working with my daughter who are focused on her comfort as well as treatment. Dr. Price is himself a family man, and it definitely shows in his rapport with young people!

    An accident in my childhood had left me with one top central incisor that was noticeably shorter than the other, and it had always been something that made me feel self-conscious. As we neared the end of my treatment, Dr. Price gave me the option of polishing my teeth so they would match. I was AMAZED with the results! He is an absolute artist with his tools, and the results exceeded my expectations! In short, I highly recommend Price Family Orthodontics in Frisco just off 121 on Independence (near both McKinney and Plano). The amount of personal attention, combined with skilled professionalism that you or your child will receive, are of the highest caliber. I have received many compliments on my new smile, and I’m so happy I did it!

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    - Karl V.

    Price Family Orthodontics is AMAZING. They deserve more than a 5 star rating! I have truly enjoyed Dr. Price, his wife Amy and his entire staff for their superb patient care and making me feel right at home in their lovely office. Dr. Price is very knowledgeable and highly skilled utilizing state of the art technology throughout my treatment. His quality of work is incredible. I got my ceramic braces off ahead of schedule! Plus had some laser contouring done for the perfect finishing touch. I am extremely HAPPY with my results and highly recommend Dr. Price and Price Family Orthodontics.

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    - Ebony Martin

    When we moved here, one of our kids already had braces. We shopped around and found that Dr Price not only had the best prices, but he was clearly the most open to working with us even when she had a different kind of braces than he typically uses. He did an amazing job and my daughters smile is beautiful! The office was always able to schedule withing a reasonable amount of time and the staff is so kind, I consider them all friends! Since then, both myself and my husband have had Dr Price improve our smiles! Of course we are thrilled with the outcome! He is very knowledgeable and makes sure he does the best job possible. He also prioritizes your concerns and desires as a patient! Definitely the best ortho!

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    - Kara Swallow

    The most incredible staff! Everyone made my daughter feel completely at ease and comfortable. My child is actually excited about getting braces after having such a wonderful experience.

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    - Sarah Spross

    My sister and I have both been going to Price Family Orthodontics for over a year! I feel like I have made a new family here—I always feel so welcome, and they always want to know what I am up to! The process of getting braces is never fun, but Price Family is definitely the best at making it a smooth process! I just finished my final retainer check and will miss coming here, but I will still stop by and visit just because everyone is so awesome!

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    - Liz Wood

    My son was in braces two years and my daughter is currently a patient with Dr. Price. Dr. Price has a great bedside manner. He was very patient with my 13-year-old son, as he lost brackets and was generally an un-ideal patient! I appreciated his mercy and sympathy. I found his pricing very reasonable. He is very professional and knowledgeable.

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    - Phoebe Hall

    We have been seeing Dr. Price for the last two years, first for my daughter and now my son. He and his staff are so friendly with my kids, and he really cares about their treatment. I trust that he won’t do any unnecessary treatment, and wants to do what is best for the individual. I highly recommend him for any orthodontic treatment.

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    - Miranda Gordon

    Two of my children are currently receiving orthodontic treatment from Dr. Price. The visits are efficient and we have never had a long wait. Dr. Price and his staff are warm and friendly and willing to take whatever time is necessary to answer questions and address my concerns. I know that Dr. Price will only recommend treatment he feels is necessary and helpful for the long-term benefit of the patient. From my kids’ perspective, Dr. Price and his assistant Ginger genuinely care about them and how they are doing. My kids also LOVE his unique incentive program that rewards them for good dental hygiene and for setting and achieving goals in their life. I don’t have to push them to do what is needed because they are motivated by his reward system. We have been very happy with Price Family Orthodontics.

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    - Kelli Robertson

    I take both my children to Dr. Price after going to see another orthodontist in the local area for a consultation. What impressed me right up front was that he wasn’t going to rush and place braces on my daughter when it wasn’t the most opportune treatment time for her versus just putting braces on her for a quick sale. If you are considering treatment, I would recommend visiting Dr. Price first! He does offer in-house financing and payments can be made monthly for parents who are wondering how to budget treatment.

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    - Melissa Moore

    We love Price Family Ortho for so many reasons! Dr. Price gives thorough, detailed treatment and has excellent training in his field. He really cares about his patients, plus never treats you like a number. Dr. Price is fabulous at explaining treatment options to both adults and kids. He makes everyone feel valued and listens to your concerns. Dr. Price is true to his motto ‘live life smiling.’ I highly recommend Dr. Price to anyone needing good orthodontic treatment. My kids love going to their office for the rewards program and being part of the team to make their teeth healthy. The staff involves the kids in being responsible for their treatment. I love what my kids learn there. And I love that I don’t have to nag them to take care of their teeth now.

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    - Sharisa Lewis

    Dr. Price is a man of great integrity. You would never have to worry with him that he is recommending a treatment primarily for his financial gain. He has state-of-the-art equipment and is extremely knowledgeable in the field. He and his staff are very warm, friendly, and easy to feel comfortable around.

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    - John

    Dr. Price is thorough and passionate about providing the best orthodontics for each individual. We have three family members in braces (soon to be four) with Price Family Orthodontics, and are fully confident about their future smiles. The office staff is also the BEST. Thank you PFO!!!

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    - Richard