Jaw Relationship Issues in Adults
It is not too late to start an orthodontic treatment in adulthood. On the contrary, adult orthodontics has many benefits, which is why Montreal orthodontist Dr. Tram-Anh Nguyen offers a wide range of adult orthodontic treatments.
Understanding jaw imbalance in adults
In adults, poor jaw alignment – called skeletal dysfunction or maxillomandibular discrepancy – can lead to a series of inconveniences that go beyond the mere appearance of the smile. Jaw pain, premature tooth wear, temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, difficulty chewing, and even impacts on breathing or speech: the consequences are multiple and often progressive. The relationship between the upper and lower jaws can be unbalanced in several ways. For example, we talk about Class II when there is a mandibular setback, or Class III in the case of an exaggerated advancement of the lower jaw. A receded chin, an inverted occlusion, or an open dental gap are also common forms of misalignment. Contrary to popular belief, it is never too late to correct these issues. Specific orthodontic solutions exist for adults, without necessarily resorting to surgery.
Diagnosis and personalized treatment plan
Before any intervention, a complete orthodontic assessment is conducted. This diagnosis allows for measuring the extent of the misalignment, identifying associated functional disorders, and proposing a treatment plan tailored to each patient’s reality. In adults, with bone growth completed, the therapeutic approaches differ from those used in children or adolescents. The first step is to determine whether orthodontic correction alone is sufficient—using fixed appliances or clear aligners—or if a combined approach with orthognathic surgery is recommended. Dr. Tram-Anh Nguyen always prioritizes the least invasive options when the case allows. In many situations, occlusal reprogramming through orthodontics can restore a harmonious and functional relationship between the jaws without requiring surgical intervention.
Devices, duration, and follow-up of the treatment
Depending on the nature of the misalignment, different devices can be proposed. Discreet braces, clear aligners, or certain repositioning devices allow for gradual adjustments to the occlusion. The treatment lasts on average between 12 and 30 months. During this period, regular adjustments are made to accommodate the evolution of the jaw and ensure lasting results. A well-conducted treatment not only improves chewing function but also rebalances facial features, often altered by years of muscular compensation. The pain at the beginning of the treatment is generally moderate and well managed through gradual adjustments. The follow-up is conducted directly at the clinic in Montreal, with particular attention given to joint, muscle, and aesthetic progression.
Long-term consequences without treatment
Ignoring a jaw misalignment is not without consequences. Besides the accelerated wear of the teeth due to an unstable occlusion, TMJ disorders can intensify over time: joint clicks, limited mouth opening, cervical tension, and recurrent headaches. Some patients also develop postural or respiratory issues related to poor mandibular positioning. Orthodontic treatment, by properly realigning the jaws, often helps relieve these symptoms and prevent their worsening. It is therefore recommended to consult as soon as pain, visible misalignments, or persistent functional discomfort appear.
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Orthodontie CDN, led by Dr. Tram-Anh Nguyen, offers an approach focused on diagnostic precision and quality support. The practice has only one practitioner, which ensures continuity in follow-up and personalized attention throughout the treatment. Each case is handled with rigor, without resorting to standardized protocols. Dr. Nguyen’s expertise allows for the identification of cases wherean intervention can avoid surgery, and to propose coherent care trajectories adapted to the adult’s bone structure. An initial consultation allows for the establishment of a realistic and effective plan, taking into account each individual’s aesthetic and functional goals.
An orthodontic treatment to correct a jaw relationship issue does not only aim to improve the smile. It restores a biomechanical balance throughout the entire face and