When tooth and jaw structure do not fit together properly, orthodontic treatment may be necessary. The most common problems are often referred to as malocclusions (or bad bites) and if left untreated can lead to pain, gum disease, premature wear of the teeth and speech difficulties. Children who do not receive corrective jaw therapy can be plagued by unsightly jaw misalignments that may require surgery later to correct.
Below are several examples of ‘bad bites” that with orthodontic treatment can be corrected.
Under bite
The lower jaw extends out, causing the lower front teeth to sit in front of the upper front teeth.
Spacing
This is caused by missing teeth, or a cosmetic issue.
Protrusion
The upper teeth actually extend too far forward or the lower teeth do not extend forward enough.
Crowding
This occurs when teeth have insufficient room to grow from the gum. Crowding can often be corrected by expansion.
Cross bite
Here, the upper teeth sit inside the lower teeth, which may cause excessive tooth stratification and misaligned jaw growth.
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.
Open bite
The upper and lower front teeth do not overlap. This is typically caused by habits, such as thumb-sucking or tongue-thrusting.
Midlines:
See where the midline of the front teeth does not match the bottom? This may negatively impact the jaw and proper dental function.