Orthodontic issues can affect anyone, as very few people have perfectly aligned teeth naturally. Malocclusion, commonly known as a “bad bite,” can impact various aspects of oral health, including chewing, speaking, oral hygiene, and aesthetics.
A bad bite may be caused by factors such as genetics, thumb sucking, dental disease, poor hygiene, accidents, birth defects, or other medical conditions. It’s important to recognize that many orthodontic problems can be effectively treated at any age, with options available for both children and adults.
Understanding the orthodontic issue that you or your child may be facing is the first step toward finding a solution. Orthodontic treatment provided by Drs. Hugh and Stephanie Phillis can not only enhance the function of your bite but also improve the appearance of your smile, ultimately boosting both confidence and oral health.
Here are some of the most common orthodontic issues:
Upper Front Teeth Protrusion
This condition affects both the function and appearance of your teeth. It occurs when the upper teeth extend too far forward, or the lower teeth do not extend far enough, impacting both aesthetics and chewing.
Overbite
In an overbite, the upper front teeth extend too far over the lower front teeth, causing the lower teeth to bite into the roof of the mouth. This can lead to discomfort and difficulty with chewing.
Underbite
In an underbite, the lower jaw extends outward, causing the lower teeth to sit in front of the upper teeth. This misalignment can affect bite function and facial symmetry and lead to jaw pain.
Crossbite
A crossbite occurs when the upper teeth sit inside the lower teeth. This misalignment can interfere with jaw growth, leading to dental issues and potential bite problems if untreated.
Open bite
In an open bite, the upper and lower front teeth do not overlap, impairing proper chewing. This misalignment can lead to habits like tongue thrusting, which complicates dental health.
Crowding
Crowding happens when there’s not enough space for teeth to properly erupt from the gums. It can often be corrected with expansion, avoiding the need for tooth removal in many cases.
Spacing
Spacing issues can arise from missing teeth or be purely aesthetic. Correcting these issues improves the appearance and function of your smile, making it easier to maintain oral hygiene.
