Common Orthodontic PRoblems
Orthodontic problems can affect more than just the appearance of your smile. Issues with tooth alignment and bite can impact your oral health, comfort, and overall function. At Bernhardt & Smith Orthodontics, Dr. Melissa Bernhardt and Dr. Blair Smith diagnose and treat a wide range of orthodontic concerns to help patients achieve healthy, confident smiles.
What Are Common Orthodontic Issues?
Orthodontic problems, also known as malocclusions, occur when teeth and jaws are not properly aligned. These issues can arise from genetics, early habits, or growth patterns.
Upper Front Teeth Protrusion
This condition affects both the appearance and function of your smile. It occurs when the upper teeth extend too far forward or when the lower teeth do not extend far enough forward, creating an imbalanced bite. In addition to aesthetic concerns, this condition can increase the risk of injury to the front teeth.
Overbite
An overbite occurs when the upper front teeth extend too far over the lower front teeth. In more severe cases, the lower teeth may contact the roof of the mouth, leading to discomfort and potential wear over time. Proper correction helps improve both function and long-term oral health.
Crossbite
A crossbite happens when the upper teeth sit inside the lower teeth rather than outside. This misalignment can lead to uneven jaw growth and may cause the jaw to shift during opening and closing. Early treatment is often recommended to prevent further complications.
Openbite
An open bite occurs when the upper and lower front teeth do not overlap when the mouth is closed. This can interfere with proper chewing and may be associated with certain habits. Over time, it may cause additional strain on the back teeth.
Crowding
Crowding occurs when there is not enough space in the jaw for teeth to properly erupt and align. This can cause teeth to overlap or rotate, making them more difficult to clean. In many cases, crowding can be corrected through expansion, often avoiding the need for tooth removal.
Spacing
Spacing problems may be caused by missing teeth or may be purely cosmetic. Spacing issues involve gaps between teeth, which may be caused by missing teeth or natural variations in tooth size and jaw structure. While sometimes primarily cosmetic, spacing can also affect how teeth function and how food is trapped between them.