Orthodontic problems can affect anyone – in fact, our teeth are rarely naturally perfect. Malocclusion, or a “bad bite,” can cause problems with chewing, oral hygiene, speaking, and aesthetics. A bad bite can be genetic or can be caused by thumb sucking, dental disease, poor dental hygiene, accidents, congenital disabilities, or other medical conditions.
Understanding the orthodontic issue you or your child face is the initial step toward correction. Dr. Andrew Taylor’s orthodontic treatment can enhance both bite functionality and smile aesthetics.
Below are some examples of the most common orthodontic problems.
Upper Front Teeth Protrusion
This type of bite impacts the appearance and function of your teeth. It is characterized by the upper teeth extending too far forward or the lower teeth not extending far forward.
Overbite
The upper front teeth extend out over the lower front teeth, sometimes causing the lower front teeth to bite into the roof of the mouth.
Crossbite
The upper teeth sit inside the lower teeth, which may cause tooth stratification and misaligned jaw growth.
Openbite
Proper chewing is impacted by this type of bite, in which the upper and lower front teeth do not overlap. Openbite may cause a number of unwanted habits, such as tongue thrusting.
Crowding
Crowding occurs when teeth have insufficient room to erupt from the gum. Expansion can often correct crowding, and tooth removal can often be avoided.
Spacing
Missing teeth may cause spacing problems, or they may only be a cosmetic or aesthetic issue.
Underbite
In an underbite, the lower jaw extends out, causing the lower front teeth to sit in the front of the upper front teeth.
