Orthodontic issues can affect anyone, as perfectly aligned teeth are rare. Malocclusion, commonly known as a “bad bite,” can lead to problems with chewing, maintaining oral hygiene, speaking, and achieving a balanced smile. This condition may be inherited or caused by thumb sucking, dental disease, inadequate oral care, injuries, birth defects, or other health conditions.
Understanding orthodontic issues is crucial for effective treatment. Dr. Jose Enrique Ortiz specializes in enhancing both bite function and smile beauty with orthodontic solutions.
Here are some of the most common orthodontic issues:
Upper Front Teeth Protrusion
This condition affects the alignment and function of your teeth. It is characterized by the upper teeth extending too far forward or the lower teeth not protruding sufficiently. This misalignment can impact your bite, making it difficult to chew properly. Early intervention can help address these issues and prevent further complications.
Overbite
An overbite happens when the upper front teeth protrude significantly over the lower front teeth. This misalignment can sometimes cause the lower front teeth to touch the roof of the mouth. An excessive overbite can also lead to jaw discomfort and uneven wear of the teeth. It’s important to address this issue promptly to prevent long-term dental problems.
Crossbite
In a crossbite, the upper teeth are positioned inside the lower teeth. This misalignment can result in uneven tooth wear and may affect the jaw’s growth. Over time, a crossbite can lead to jaw joint problems and difficulties with proper biting and chewing. Treatment can help correct the alignment and prevent additional complications.
Openbite
An openbite is characterized by the upper and lower front teeth not overlapping. This condition can impair proper chewing and may lead to habits such as tongue thrusting. It can also impact speech clarity and overall oral function. Effective orthodontic care can address this issue and improve bite function and appearance.
Crowding
Crowding occurs when there isn’t enough space for teeth to emerge properly from the gums. Treatment often involves expanding the arch, and in many cases, tooth extraction can be avoided. Crowded teeth can be difficult to clean properly, increasing the risk of decay and gum disease. Orthodontic treatment can create space and improve oral hygiene.
Spacing
Spacing issues can arise from missing teeth or may be purely cosmetic. Adequate orthodontic evaluation helps determine the best approach to address these gaps. Properly addressing spacing can improve your smile’s appearance and function, ensuring a more balanced and healthy bite.
Underbite
An underbite occurs when the lower jaw extends forward, causing the lower front teeth to sit in front of the upper front teeth. This misalignment can affect the function and appearance of your bite and lead to difficulties with speaking and chewing. Early treatment can help correct the bite and enhance overall oral health.
