Common Orthodontic Issues

Crowding

Crowding happens when there is a lack of space for teeth to fit normally within the jaws. If left untreated, crowding can cause:

• Crooked or displaced teeth
• Difficulty biting, chewing, or swallowing
• An increased risk for tooth decay and gum disease

Open bite

An openbite is when the top teeth and bottom teeth do not come together or bite in the correct position. If left untreated, an openbite can cause:

• Difficulty biting, chewing, or swallowing
• Speech issues such as lisps or slurs
• TMJ disorders

Deepbite

A deepbite is when the top teeth overlap significantly with the bottom teeth while the mouth is closed. If left untreated, a deepbite can cause:

• Crooked or cramped teeth
• Excessive wear on lower teeth
• Gum recession
• Sores or ulcers that develop on the roof of the mouth
• Speech issues such as lisps or slurs
• Jaw pain and headaches
• TMJ disorders

Missing lateral incisors

Missing lateral incisors are commonly caused by a condition called hypodontia, in which someone is congenitally born with missing teeth. If left untreated, missing lateral incisors can cause:

• Difficulty biting, chewing, or swallowing
• Bone and tissue loss
• Drifting of adjacent teeth
• Speech issues such as lisps or slurs

Underbite

An underbite occurs when your bottom teeth extend beyond your top front teeth. If left untreated, an underbite can cause:

• Difficulty biting, chewing, or swallowing
• Chronic mouth breathing
• Speech issues such as lisps or slurs
• Sleep apnea and snoring
• Jaw pain and headaches
• TMJ disorders

Gaps

Gaps occur when the teeth are too small to fill up the space in the jawbone. If left untreated, gaps can cause:

• Food impaction
• Tooth decay and gum disease
• Loose or missing teeth

Overjet

An overjet is when the upper front teeth protrude outward. This condition is commonly referred to as “buck teeth.” If left untreated, overjet can cause:

• Difficulty biting, chewing, or swallowing
• Increased risk of dental trauma
• Discomfort or pain while eating
• TMJ disorders
• Speech issues such as lisps or slurs
• Inability to close lips

Early Intervention

Early Intervention or Phase I treatment is a form of orthodontic intervention that is recommended for children who have certain orthodontic issues that can benefit from early orthodontic treatment.