When a person’s teeth or jaw structure do not fit together properly, orthodontic treatment may be necessary to straightenen the teeth and enhance function. These problems, often referred to as malocclusions (bad bites) can cause speech problems, premature and excessive wear of the teeth, and increase the chance of injury to the teeth and jaw joints, if left untreated.
Crowding
Crowding occurs when teeth have insufficient room to erupt in good alignment. Crowding may be corrected by expansion or the removal of teeth.
Spacing
Spacing problems may be caused by missing teeth, genetics, or habits.
Deep Bite
In a deep bite, the upper front teeth overlap the lower front teeth too far. This results in improper function of the teeth and may cause excessive wearing of the teeth.
Open Bite
In an openbite, the upper and lower front teeth do not overlap. This results in improper chewing and function of the jaws. Openbite may be caused by habits such as thumb sucking or tongue thrusting.
Protrusion
The appearance of your face and teeth, as well as the function of your teeth, are influenced by the position of the upper front teeth. Protrusion is characterized by the upper front teeth sticking out too far and the lower teeth being too far back.
Under Bite (Anterior Crossbite)
In an underbite, the lower jaw appears to protrude out, causing the lower front teeth to sit out in front of the upper front teeth.
Crossbite of Back Teeth
In a crossbite of the back teeth, the upper teeth sit inside of the lower teeth. This may cause jaw malalignment and growth problems.
Oral Habits
Oral habits such as thumb or finger sucking and tongue thrusing can lead to problems in the growth of the jaws and face, as well as damage to the bite.
Class II
A Class II malocclusion occurs when the upper teeth are too far forward relative to the lower teeth.
Class III
A Class III malocclusion occurs when the lower teeth are too far forward relative to the lower teeth.
Impacted Teeth/Tipped Teeth/Missing Teeth
Impacted teeth are teeth which have not erupted into the mouth, usually due to lack of space. Tipped and/ or missing teeth create bite and gum problems.