What is a Midline in Orthodontics?


Each day we use a lot of terms and you may wonder “what language are they speaking?” A common one is “midline.” What is a midline in the dental world, and what does it have to do with orthodontic treatment?

The dental midline is the line between your two upper front teeth and your two lower front teeth, and it plays a significant role in orthodontic treatment. The dental midlines of your upper and lower jaws should align with the middle of your face. When this doesn’t happen, the condition is called a “deviated” midline. This is an asymmetry issue and causes your back bite from fitting properly.

One of the most famous faces that had a deviated midline for years is actor Tom Cruise. In this photo you can notice how far his midline is off. When he got braces for his children their orthodontist suggested braces for him to correct this issue. We can do the same for you!

Some of the most common causes of deviated midline are: early loss of baby teeth, missing adult teeth, or severe crowding. The best plan of action is to have and orthodontic evaluation if you have any concerns.

Dr. Fleming has several ways of addressing this issue. With a complimentary consultation she will be able to diagnose this condition and take the necessary steps to correct and prevent further issues. We look forward to hearing from you!

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Dr. Patty Fleming