Are you looking for help with common orthodontic issues? Orthodontic problems such as crowding, crossbite, underbite, open bite, overbite, and spacing can cause discomfort and distress. But don’t worry, we’re here to help.
This blog post will discuss an overview of common orthodontic issues and how braces, Invisalign, and other orthodontic treatments can help.
Crowding
Crowding is a common orthodontic issue involving teeth overlapping due to a lack of space in the mouth. It can cause teeth misalignment, making it difficult for them to come together properly when chewing. Crowding can also make brushing and flossing difficult, increasing the risk of cavities and gum disease.
Braces and Invisalign commonly push the teeth into their proper positions. It can involve techniques like expanding the arch or moving the molars back.
After the treatment, you may need to wear a retainer to ensure your new smile remains corrected.
Crossbite
A crossbite happens when one or more upper teeth bite inside the lower teeth. Crossbites can occur when the upper jaw and lower jaw do not line up correctly, resulting in one or more upper teeth sitting inside the lower teeth. Crossbites can cause several issues, including difficulty chewing, tooth wear, and periodontal problems.
Braces can correct crossbites by moving teeth into a more aligned position. Other orthodontic treatments, such as headgear, may also correct crossbites. Invisalign can also be an effective treatment option for crossbites. Invisalign uses a series of clear aligners to move the teeth into their correct position gradually.
Underbite
An underbite, or Class III malocclusion, occurs when the lower jaw protrudes past the upper jaw. It causes a person’s bottom teeth to sit before their top teeth when they bite down.
Underbites are usually treated with braces, which correct the misalignment by pushing the lower jaw into the correct position. Orthodontists may also recommend headgear to help push the lower jaw back and move it into the proper position. In more severe cases, orthognathic jaw surgery may be required.
Open bite
An open bite occurs when the upper and lower teeth don’t touch or overlap when the mouth is closed. This condition can have a variety of causes, including thumb sucking, prolonged pacifier use, tongue thrusting, and genetic predisposition.
An open bite can be an aesthetic concern and affect a person’s ability to bite and chew food efficiently. Braces are typically used to treat an open bite, gradually moving the teeth into the desired position.
When using braces, your orthodontist in South Surrey may use intrusion, which involves applying force to push the back teeth inward and close the open bite.
Overbite
An overbite is a malocclusion where the upper teeth extend too far over the lower teeth when biting down. It can also be an “excessive overjet,” usually caused by genetics or habits like thumb-sucking.
If left untreated, an overbite can lead to problems with teeth, gums, and even temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders.
Fortunately, you can correct this condition with orthodontic treatments like braces or Invisalign. Braces gently move your teeth into the proper positions using metal brackets, wires, and rubber bands. Meanwhile, Invisalign uses custom-made, clear aligners that gradually shift your teeth into place.
Spacing
Spacing is a common orthodontic issue characterized by gaps between the teeth. Smaller than average teeth, missing teeth, or tongue-thrusting habits can cause this. Spacing can lead to further complications, such as tooth decay and gum disease, if left untreated.
Spacing can be corrected with braces, Invisalign, or other orthodontic treatments. Braces close the gaps between the teeth, while Invisalign can reposition them into their correct positions.
An orthodontist may also recommend other orthodontic treatments, such as clear aligners, elastics, and jaw expansion appliances to close the spaces between the teeth.