Orthodontic treatment can correct a number of issues including problems with:
Crowding – Crowding is an issue regarding poor teeth alignment, often due to a small jaw, or when teeth are too large to fit in the available space. Crowded teeth not only create a poor bite, and undesirable look but they can also impact the bones and gums surrounding these teeth.
Spacing – When teeth are small, missing, or unable to fill the dental arch, spacing can occur between the teeth. These teeth can not only be unsightly, but difficult to clean and maintain as well.
Overjet (Protruding Upper Teeth) – Overjet occurs when the top front teeth protrude or stick out. This can cause bite issues, problems with jaw growth, and can put the teeth at risk for injury.
Overbite – Overbite, or deep bite, occurs when the lower front teeth touch the gum tissue behind the upper teeth. This can cause discomfort and serious bone/gum damage.
Open Bite – When the upper and lower front teeth do not touch during biting, this is called an open bite. This can cause excessive pressure on the back teeth and can cause significant wear and damage.
Crossbite – A crossbite is when a top tooth or group of top teeth bite inside the bottom teeth. It can impact both the back teeth and the front teeth, and should be corrected early. When left untreated, it can cause serious chewing/jaw challenges.
Underbite – When the lower jaw protrudes significantly more than the upper jaw, it can create an underbite, which can cause teeth wear and issues with chewing. In childhood cases, at times, jaw growth can be monitored to see if the issue can resolve itself, or if early treatment is needed.