Orthodontic issues, such as malocclusion or “bad bite,” can impact anyone, leading to difficulties with chewing, speaking, and oral hygiene. These misalignments may be inherited or caused by habits, dental issues, injuries, or poor oral care. Even minor problems can cause long-term effects if left untreated. Fortunately, modern orthodontics offers various treatments to improve both function and appearance.
Understanding the problem is the first step toward finding a solution. Whether for you or your child, orthodontic treatment from Dr. Vincent Smith, Dr. Brian Kurtzner, or Dr. Greg Stock at SKS Orthodontics can enhance the function of your bite and the appearance of your smile. Our goal is to help patients achieve healthier teeth, a more comfortable bite, and increased confidence in their smiles.
Below are some of the most common orthodontic issues:
Overbite
An overbite happens when the upper front teeth extend too far over the lower front teeth. In some cases, this can cause the lower teeth to make contact with the roof of the mouth, which may lead to discomfort or difficulty eating.
Crossbite
A crossbite occurs when the upper teeth rest inside the lower teeth. This misalignment can disrupt jaw growth, leading to potential long-term oral health issues if left untreated.
Open bite
In this case, the upper and lower front teeth do not overlap, which can make proper chewing difficult. An open bite may also encourage habits like tongue thrusting, which can further complicate the issue.
Underbite
An underbite occurs when the lower jaw extends outward, causing the lower front teeth to sit in front of the upper front teeth. This misalignment can affect both the function and appearance of your smile.
Upper Front Teeth Protrusion
This condition affects both the appearance and function of your teeth. It occurs when the upper teeth protrude too far forward or when the lower teeth do not extend far enough forward, disrupting the bite.
Crowding
Crowding happens when there isn’t enough space for teeth to emerge properly from the gums. While this issue is often correctable through expansion, tooth removal can sometimes be avoided with the right treatment approach.
Spacing
Spacing issues can arise from missing teeth, or they may simply be an aesthetic concern. In either case, orthodontic treatment can help create a more balanced smile.