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The upper jaw (maxilla) can be expanded with an expander before growth is complete because there is a cartilage suture that can be widened to actually change the shape of the jaw. In the case of the lower jaw (mandible) there is no cartilage suture that can be used to widen the lower jaw, so any expansion that occurs is generally expansion of only the teeth within the existing jaw bone and not the jaw bone itself. I hope that helps.
The lower jaw is a single bone (as is the upper jaw at some point in the teens) so it is impossible to widen the bone structure...all you can do is move the teeth. Now if the lower teeth are leaned in toward the tongue then it is OK to expand the arch to make more room, but if the teeth are level then expansion is unstable. Now there are orthodontists who will say this is not true, but ask them to show you the scientific studies (not anecdotal reports) that support their belief.
Hi elliegirl .... I agree with the previous three docs ... You have retroclined front teeth which are causing you problems with back teeth. I think you can fix this with either braces or Invisalign. I think you can get a good result with either one. Good luck!
Looks like your options are limited. There is no way to repair this brackage proprerly. You can smooth down back part and hope for the best. I would not recommend that though, because back teeth can supererupt and mess up your bite. Please consider getting a new retainer. Any...
Since you've already had braces your upper teeth may already be all set for surgery. However, typically when the BSSO is done, the surgeon needs to be able to tie something to upper braces. And you may need to wear some elastics afterwards. But that can be overcome with some...
