Understanding Common Orthodontic Problems
Orthodontic problems can affect anyone; after all, very few smiles are naturally perfect. Malocclusion, often called a “bad bite,” can impact how you chew, speak, and care for your teeth, and even how your smile looks. These bite issues can be inherited or develop over time from habits like thumb sucking, injury, gum disease, poor oral hygiene, or certain medical conditions.
Understanding the orthodontic problem you or your child may have is the first step toward achieving a healthy, confident smile. With personalized treatment from Dr. Vahid Babaeian, you can improve the function of your bite and the appearance of your teeth, boosting both comfort and confidence.
Below are some of the most common orthodontic problems we treat:
Upper Front Teeth Protrusion
When the upper front teeth stick out too far or the lower jaw doesn’t extend forward enough, it affects both appearance and function. This type of bite can make your smile look unbalanced and may increase the risk of injury to the front teeth.
Overbite
An overbite occurs when the upper front teeth overlap the lower front teeth too much, sometimes causing the lower teeth to touch the roof of the mouth. This can lead to gum irritation, uneven wear on teeth, and even jaw discomfort if left untreated.
Crossbite
A crossbite happens when the upper teeth sit inside the lower teeth. This misalignment can cause uneven tooth wear, affect facial symmetry, and disrupt normal jaw growth. Correcting a crossbite early can prevent long-term issues with bite balance and appearance.
Open Bite
With an open bite, the upper and lower front teeth don’t touch when the mouth is closed. This can make chewing difficult and often results in habits like tongue thrusting or speech challenges. Addressing an open bite early can improve both oral function and overall facial balance.
Crowding
Crowding occurs when teeth don’t have enough space to properly emerge from the gums. This is one of the most common orthodontic issues and can make brushing and flossing difficult, increasing the risk of decay or gum problems. In many cases, expansion can correct crowding and help avoid tooth extractions.
Spacing
Spacing problems happen when there’s too much room between teeth. Gaps may be caused by missing teeth or simply be a cosmetic concern, but they can also affect bite alignment. Treatment can close spaces for a fuller, more uniform smile.
Underbite
An underbite occurs when the lower jaw extends too far forward, causing the lower front teeth to overlap the upper ones. This can lead to jaw strain, uneven wear, and difficulty chewing. Early diagnosis helps prevent more complex treatment later in life.