When a person’s teeth or jaw structure do not fit together properly, orthodontic treatment may be necessary to straighten teeth and promote ideal function. These problems, often referred to as malocclusions (bad bites), can cause speech difficulty, premature wear or fracture of the teeth, problems with the gums and even increase the chance of injury to teeth and jaw joints, if left untreated.
Spacing
Spacing can be an esthetic issue or it can cause other problems. Small spaces can trap food and plaque, leading to cavities and gum problems. Large spaces from missing teeth can cause adjacent teeth to drift or tip, leading to functional problems.
Upper Front Teeth Protrusion
The appearance and function of your teeth are impacted by this type of bite. It is characterized by the upper teeth extending too far forward or the lower teeth not extending far enough forward.
Crowding
Crowding occurs when teeth have insufficient room to erupt and can make it very difficult to maintain proper oral hygiene. Crowding can often be corrected by expansion, and many times, tooth removal can be avoided.
Crossbite
The upper arch form is narrow, causing the upper teeth to fit within the lower arch. This improper bite can cause tooth wear, fractures, jaw pain and uneven jaw growth.
Overbite
The upper front teeth overlap the lower front teeth excessively. In some cases, the lower front teeth bite into the tissues of the roof of the mouth.
Openbite
Proper chewing is impacted by this type of bite, in which the upper and lower front teeth do not overlap. Openbite may cause a number of unwanted habits, such as tongue thrusting.