7 Common Orthodontic Issues to Look Out For
Did you know that a healthy smile that is aligned well actually offers more than just aesthetic benefits? Orthodontic solutions are great way to straighten or fix many oral issues. Being aware of common orthodontic issues can help you better understand when it’s time to consult with your provider or take action. While these issues might seem like they are purely aesthetic in nature, they can truly impact your oral health overall. With the right solution and treatment, you can often overcome the challenges you might be facing.
When you recognize the challenges and seek early treatment, you can help prevent more serious complications from happening down the road. Here, we will take a closer look at 7 of the most common orthodontic issues so you know exactly what to look for and be aware of.
1. Crowded Teeth
Crowded teeth are easily one of the most common orthodontic issues that individuals may face. This happens when someone simply doesn’t have enough space in their jaws to properly fit and accommodate their teeth. As incredible as our bodies are, this happens frequently. But there are many different ways to help combat a crowded teeth issue. Sometimes, there is a need for more than one step or solution working together to create the desired effects.
Even when a jaw is crowded, teeth don’t just stop growing in. Instead, they will force themselves into place and try to make room. This often leads to issues like overlapping teeth, twisting of teeth, and misalignment. This impacts the visual of teeth, but it can also impact oral health in these ways:
- Makes brushing and flossing all over challenging
- Can cause uneven wear on teeth
- Could lead to biting difficulty or jaw pain
Solutions like palatal expanders are often used to help create more space, particularly in the upper jaw area. These expanders widen the upper jaw. Once the widening is complete, braces or Invisalign might be used to correct alignment.
2. Overbite
An overbite happens from an overlap of where your teeth rest based on the jaw. Someone with an overbite will have upper front teeth that when closed are farther forward than their lower front teeth. Generally, the teeth should come together, but in an overbite they do not. It can be common to have slight overbites and they might not have a huge impact. However, any significant overlap or overbite can cause issues for a person.
Common issues from overbites include:
- Excessive wear on lower teeth
- Jaw pain or discomfort
- Increased risk of accidental chipping and injury
- Chewing difficulties
Overbites can often be recognized by the lack of a chin. Because an overbite leads to misalignment of the jaw, it can require you to accommodate for the bite by chewing incorrectly or chewing more in one or two areas of your mouth. There are several orthodontic appliances used to help begin the correction of an overbite. Braces can be part of that journey, depending on the overbite. Headgear is sometimes used for more severe cases. Your provider will evaluate your needs and make recommendations based on those needs.
3. Underbite
Opposite of an overbite, an underbite is among the most common orthodontic issues people might face. These are less common than overbites but still present a unique situation addressed by orthodontics. In this scenario, your lower teeth will extend beyond your upper teeth when your teeth are closed together.
This too can make chewing and speaking more difficult and often causes more hardship than an overbite. There are times when jaw surgery might be necessary, but providers will use a variety of appliances before they turn to that option. Teeth expanders are often part of this treatment in order to expand the upper jaw slightly to compensate.
4. Crossbite
A crossbite is similar to an overbite, but there are some differences. This is defined by some upper teeth sitting inside the lower teeth when the mouth is closed. In this scenario, it may be specific to just one or two teeth or even an entire section of teeth. The difference from an underbite is that it’s related to the teeth and not necessarily the entire jaw placement.
A crossbite might be remedied by a retainer for mouth solution, teeth expanders, braces, and more. The goal with treatment will be to better align and reposition teeth so the bite is correct.
5. Open Bite
An open bite occurs when the individual’s front teeth do not touch when the mouth is closed. There is a visible gap between upper and lower teeth. In many cases, it is thought this is caused by thumb sucking, but that is not necessarily always the case. The challenge with an open bite is that chewing food or biting into food can be more difficult.
In order to correct the issue, a variety of tools may need to be used. If there is a habit causing the open bite, the habit will need to be broken prior to treatment or the issue may reoccur. Braces is a common choice for this treatment need.
6. Gaps Between Teeth
The official name for gaps between teeth is known as diastema. This is one of the most common orthodontic issues experienced across the board. Gaps and misalignment are the most common challenges treated with braces and retainer for mouth solutions. A gap will affect the visual appeal of teeth, but it can also impact functionality and even gum strength.
While a small gap is likely not going to cause problems, large gaps can lead to shifting and they can host food or debris that might lead to cavities and other issues as well.
7. Misalignment
Finally, misalignment is another common issue. This is often combatted with braces or Invisalign, but there may also be some need for a palatal expander, depending on the overall situation of your teeth. Misalignment refers to things like crooked teeth, awkward placement, or even uneven teeth. The good news is these issues are typically corrected easily, especially if you take action before they lead to major problems.
Conclusion
These common orthodontic problems are the issues that professionals treat every day. If you have any of these concerns, consult with an orthodontist to determine the best course of treatment. Don’t just ignore it as you don’t want your issue to turn into a major problem down the road.
