Which Medical Specialty Should You Consult for These Common Issues?

Which specialty should I consult for these issues?

Hello, which specialty should I consult for the following issues? 1.
To check if the jaw is misaligned? 2.
To examine the bite? 3.
When the tongue is pressing against the teeth?

Xiao Hua, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2009/04/13

Dr. Lai Hexian reply Family Medicine

Hello, both plastic surgery and dentistry are acceptable.

Reply Date: 2009/04/13

More Info

When faced with the common issues you've mentioned, it's essential to consult the appropriate medical specialties to ensure accurate diagnosis and effective treatment. Here’s a breakdown of the conditions and the relevant specialties you should consider:
1. To confirm if the jaw is misaligned (歪): The best specialist to consult for jaw alignment issues is an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon or an Orthodontist. An Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon specializes in surgical procedures involving the mouth, jaw, and face, and can assess any structural abnormalities. An Orthodontist, on the other hand, focuses on correcting misaligned teeth and jaws using braces or other orthodontic devices. They can provide a comprehensive evaluation of your jaw alignment and recommend appropriate treatment options, which may include braces, retainers, or surgical intervention if necessary.

2. For issues related to a "戽斗" (which translates to "malocclusion" or "bite issues"): Again, an Orthodontist would be the most suitable specialist to consult. Malocclusion refers to the misalignment of teeth and jaws, which can lead to various dental problems, including difficulty in chewing, speech issues, and increased wear on teeth. An Orthodontist can perform a thorough examination, including X-rays, to determine the extent of the malocclusion and create a treatment plan that may involve braces or other corrective devices.

3. If the tongue is pressing against the teeth (舌頭頂牙齒): This issue can be addressed by both an Orthodontist and a Dentist. An Orthodontist can evaluate the impact of the tongue's position on your dental alignment and recommend treatments to correct any associated issues. A general Dentist can also provide insights into oral health and hygiene, and they can assess whether the tongue's positioning is causing any dental problems, such as wear on the teeth or gum issues.

In summary, for the issues you've listed, the primary specialists to consult would be an Orthodontist for both jaw alignment and bite issues, as they are trained to handle these specific concerns. An Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon may be necessary if surgical intervention is required. Additionally, a Dentist can provide general dental care and advice regarding oral health.
It's important to remember that early consultation with the right specialist can prevent further complications and lead to more effective treatment outcomes. If you experience any discomfort or functional issues related to these conditions, don't hesitate to seek professional advice. Proper diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve your quality of life and oral health.

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