Orthodontic issues can affect anyone, as naturally perfect teeth are rare. Malocclusion, or a “bad bite,” can lead to challenges such as:
- Difficulty chewing
- Problems with oral hygiene
- Speech issues
- Aesthetic concerns
A bad bite may be hereditary or result from factors such as thumb sucking, dental disease, poor dental hygiene, accidents, birth defects, or other medical conditions.
Understanding the orthodontic problem you or your child may face is the first step toward correcting it. Orthodontic treatment by Dr. Parker Wentz can improve both your bite’s functionality and your smile’s appearance.
Below are some of the most common orthodontic problems:
Overbite
An overbite is characterized by the upper front teeth extending over the lower front teeth. In severe cases, the lower front teeth may bite into the roof of the mouth, potentially causing discomfort or injury.
Crossbite
A crossbite happens when the upper teeth sit inside the lower teeth, leading to a misalignment in how the jaws come together. If left untreated, this condition may cause abnormal jaw growth and other complications.
Underbite
An underbite is identified by the lower jaw extending outward, causing the lower front teeth to sit in front of the upper front teeth. This condition can affect the alignment and functionality of the bite, requiring specialized orthodontic treatment.
Open bite
Open bite occurs when the upper and lower front teeth do not overlap, making proper chewing difficult. This type of bite is often associated with habits such as tongue thrusting, which can worsen the condition over time.
Upper Front Teeth Protrusion
This issue affects both the appearance and function of the teeth. It occurs when the upper teeth extend too far forward or when the lower teeth do not extend far enough forward, resulting in a misaligned bite.
Crowding
Crowding arises when there is insufficient space for teeth to erupt properly from the gums. This condition is often treatable with expansion, which can help create the necessary space. In many cases, tooth removal can be avoided.
Spacing
Spacing problems occur when there are gaps between teeth. These gaps may result from missing teeth or may be purely a cosmetic concern. Regardless of the cause, spacing issues can impact the overall aesthetics of a smile.
