Üsküdar Dental Hospital
Centenary year logo

How to Correct Chin Retardation?

Jaw retardation is an orthodontic problem caused by the incompatibility of the upper and lower jaw. The incompatibility of the position of the upper and lower jaw relative to each other and the skull base can lead to chewing, speech and aesthetic problems. Jaw retardation can often be caused by genetic factors, mouth breathing, early loss of baby teeth, injury or improper pacifier use. Correction methods include orthodontic treatments (braces, wire treatment), orthognathic (jaw) surgery.

Appropriate treatment is determined depending on the individual's age, condition and the severity of the jaw retardation. Early diagnosis and treatment can help to effectively correct jaw retardation problems.

What are the Symptoms of Jaw Retardation?

Jaw retardation is usually associated with genetic factors, facial bone structure, the arrangement of teeth or jaw development. Symptoms of jaw retardation can be the following:

  • The most prominent symptom of jaw retardation is the lower jaw being backward or receding compared to the upper jaw.
  • Jaw retardation can affect chewing functions. Therefore, children or adults may have difficulty chewing.
  • Jaw retardation can affect the proper use of the tongue and voice, which can lead to speech difficulties.
  • Jaw retardation can cause facial asymmetry. Facial symmetry can be distorted and changes in facial profile can be observed when jaw retardation is prominent.
  • Mouth breathing can be common with jaw retardation. Mouth breathing instead of nasal breathing can cause various respiratory problems.
  • Jaw retardation can cause narrowing of the upper airway, which can lead to sleep apnea. Problems such as irregular breathing and breathing stops during sleep may occur.
  • Jaw retardation can cause pain in the head, neck or jaw area. This may be related to temporomandibular joint (jaw joint) problems.
  • Jaw retardation can affect the arrangement of the teeth and cause dental problems. This can affect chewing function and lead to problems such as tooth wear or crowding.

The symptoms of jaw retardation can vary from individual to individual and can vary in severity. If you notice signs of jaw retardation in your child or yourself, it is important to consult a dentist or orthodontist. Specialists can perform the necessary examinations for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan.

What Causes Jaw Retardation?

Jaw retardation is a condition that can often occur due to various factors. Possible causes of jaw retardation:

Genetic Factors: Genetic factors are thought to play a role in individuals with a family history of jaw retardation. In individuals with a family history of lower jaw retardation, similar conditions may occur in children.

Facial Development Problems: Any disruption or problem during the normal development of facial bones can cause jaw retardation.

Jawbone Structure: The natural structure of the jawbone can be effective in the formation of jaw retardation. For example, if the jawbone is not long enough or underdeveloped, jaw retardation may occur.

Toothlessness: Loss of teeth or lack of teeth at an early age can affect jaw development and cause jaw retardation.

Using the wrong pacifier or bottle: Long-term use of the wrong pacifier or bottle can affect jaw development in children and cause jaw retardation.

Injuries or Trauma: Trauma or injuries to the facial area can affect the development of the jaw bones and contribute to jaw retardation.

Dental Problems: Crooked teeth, excessive clenching (bruxism) or bite problems can cause jaw retardation.

These causes can often combine to cause jaw retardation. If you notice signs of jaw retardation in your child or yourself, it is important to consult a dentist or orthodontist. They can assess the condition and determine the appropriate treatment plan.

How is jaw retardation treated?

Treatment for jaw retardation can vary depending on the severity of the condition, age, general health of the patient and other individual factors. Common methods used for the treatment of jaw retardation:

Orthodontic Treatment (Brackets and Braces): Orthodontic treatment is used to align the teeth and improve the position of the jaw. Appliances supported by brackets and wires can be used to correct jaw retardation.

Jaw Surgery: In cases of severe jaw retardation, surgical intervention may be required. Jaw surgery involves realignment and correction of the jaw bones. This surgical intervention is usually used in combination with orthodontic treatment.

Jaw Expanding Devices: Jaw expanders can be used to widen the upper and lower jaw. These devices are usually designed for use in children and can help support jaw development.

Orthodontic aligners: Orthodontic aligners, especially for children, can help to organize the teeth and promote jaw development.

Jaw Exercises: Jaw exercises recommended by physiotherapists can help strengthen the jaw muscles and correct jaw position.

Mouthguards or Braces: In children and, in some cases, adults, mouthguards or braces can be used to treat problems associated with jaw retardation, such as sleep apnea or bruxism.

A multidisciplinary approach is often necessary for successful treatment of jaw retardation. Specialists such as a dentist, orthodontist and, if necessary, a maxillofacial surgeon should assess the patient's condition and formulate an appropriate treatment plan. The treatment process is usually long-term and involves regular follow-up and check-ups.


Creation Date:12 March 2024