Common Problems

Orthodontic problems can be inherited or develop over time from habits such as thumb-sucking, early loss of baby teeth, or accidents. Here are some of the most common issues we treat:

Crowding

Not enough room in the jaw for all of the teeth, causing them to overlap or twist. Crowded teeth are harder to clean and more prone to decay and gum problems.

Spacing

Gaps between teeth, from missing teeth or teeth that are small relative to the jaw.

Overbite

The upper front teeth cover too much of the lower front teeth, sometimes causing the lower teeth to bite into the roof of the mouth.

Overjet

Upper front teeth that stick out horizontally beyond the lower teeth, which increases the risk of chipping them.

Underbite

The lower teeth sit in front of the upper teeth, often because the lower jaw is longer or the upper jaw is underdeveloped.

Crossbite

Some upper teeth sit inside the lower teeth when biting down. Left untreated, a crossbite can cause uneven jaw growth and wear.

Open bite

The front teeth don't touch when the back teeth are together, which can affect biting and speech.

Midline discrepancy

The center lines of the upper and lower front teeth don't line up, which may point to a bite or jaw imbalance.