Understanding Common Orthodontic Problems
Orthodontic problems are common; very few people are born with perfectly aligned teeth and jaws. A malocclusion, or “bad bite,” can affect how you chew, speak, and even clean your teeth. It can also impact your confidence and overall oral health.
A bad bite may be genetic or caused by factors such as:
- Thumb sucking
- Dental trauma
- Poor oral hygiene
- Early or late loss of baby teeth
- Other medical conditions.
Understanding your orthodontic issue is the first step toward correction. With care from Dr. Mark Musgrave, we can improve both the function of your bite and the appearance of your smile, creating lasting comfort and confidence.
Types of Common Orthodontic Problems
Upper Front Teeth Protrusion
The upper front teeth extend too far forward, or the lower teeth are too far back, creating an overjet appearance. This can affect both the function and aesthetics of your smile and increase the risk of dental injury.
Overbite
In an overbite, the upper front teeth overlap the lower teeth more than normal. In severe cases, the lower teeth may touch the roof of the mouth, causing gum irritation or wear on the enamel.
Crossbite
A crossbite occurs when the upper teeth sit inside the lower teeth. This misalignment can cause uneven tooth wear, jaw shifting, and even asymmetrical jaw growth if left untreated.
Open Bite
An open bite happens when the upper and lower front teeth don’t touch when you bite down. This can make chewing difficult and may be linked to thumb sucking or tongue thrusting habits.
Crowding
Crowding occurs when there isn’t enough space in the jaw for all teeth to fit properly. Teeth may overlap, twist, or become blocked out of alignment. In many cases, crowding can be corrected through orthodontic expansion, often avoiding the need for tooth extraction.
Spacing
Spacing issues can appear as gaps between teeth, often due to missing teeth or differences in tooth size. While sometimes only cosmetic, spacing can also affect bite balance and gum health.
Underbite
An underbite occurs when the lower jaw extends farther forward than the upper jaw, causing the lower front teeth to sit in front of the upper ones. This can lead to jaw discomfort, wear on teeth, and speech difficulties if untreated.
