by Anonymous » Thu Jul 22, 1999 3:05 pm
Five years ago (I was 13 then), my orthodontist told me that I
had developed an "open bite." He suggested surgery that
would cost approximately $20,000. Being a
"college-bound" student, I didn't want to spend that
much money on my teeth (My open bite was approx. 9mm). Obviously,
my parents didn't either. During the next couple of months, my
parents called around and I visited 5 dentists and 1 surgeon for
a "second opinion." They all stated that the only
solution would be expensive surgery. However, only one dentist
said he could fix it within a year for much less- about $4,000.
So my parents decided to go with his plan. Basically he took out
4 teeth (from the back) and clamped my mouth shut with rubber
bands (I had braces @ the time). Within a year, my open bite had
disappeared. However, I now have a "gummy smile." My
upper jaw was forced to move down b/c of the strain of the rubber
bands in order to meet my lower jaw. As a result, my face grew
slightly longer and my chin is not prominent anymore. Because of
this face shift, I had also developed somewhat of a double chin.
This is definitely not b/c of my weight (I'm 5'8 and 128 pounds).
As for your daughter, I definitely think you should weigh the
consequences. Although these changes may seem drastic, I'm
definitely average looking. I don't know your payment options for
surgery since I live in a different area and this was 5 years
ago...however, I'm glad I took this treatment instead of a
$20,000 surgery. However, I do realize your case is much
different. The braces were advantageous to this correction. You
might want to discuss this w/ as many dentists/surgeons you can
b/c your child is so young. Good luck on your decision!