Many people visit the orthodontist to correct misaligned teeth for aesthetic reasons. However, your orthodontist can also help promote good health. A misaligned jaw is a genetic condition that sometimes occurs. People afflicted with this condition have upper and lower teeth that don't meet correctly. This can cause a smile that doesn't look quite right. However, it can also cause medical problems such as pain and difficulty eating and talking. If you suffer from a misaligned jaw, here are four options your orthodontist might use to help you:

1. Braces

Minor jaw misalignment can show up as an overbite or an underbite. These problems are commonly treated with braces. Your dentist will glue metal brackets to your teeth and connect them with wires. Over the course of approximately two years, your orthodontist will gradually tighten the wires until your teeth and jaw shift into a more ergonomic position.

2. Clear Aligners

If you're a candidate for braces, but you prefer not to have visible metal in your mouth, clear aligners are another treatment you can try. Clear aligners are sometimes known as Invisalign. They function similarly to braces, but instead of tightening wires over time, your orthodontist will give you new aligners in progressively different shapes over a year or two. This will realign your jaw over time.

3. Headgear Braces

If your jaw misalignment is more severe, your orthodontist may recommend headgear to help shift your jaw gradually into place. Headgear braces include the same equipment as ordinary braces, but they also include a strap that fits around your head. This strap will give the device more leverage to pull your upper and lower jaw into place. Headgear isn't worn all day long; you only need to wear it between 12 and 14 hours per day. You may take it off in the evening and while you sleep.

4. Orthognathic Surgery

Extreme cases of jaw misalignment may require surgery. This surgery will be performed by a surgeon who specializes in this treatment. During the surgery, you will be put to sleep using general anesthesia. Your surgeon will reset your jaw so it heals in a more natural position that allows you to chew, talk, and breathe with ease. Orthognathic surgery is performed in a hospital rather than in your orthodontist's office. Many patients with severe misaligned jaws find that the results of this surgery are worth it, even considering the healing time.

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