Orthodontic issues can be a real pain, both in a literal and a metaphorical sense. Not only can these teeth problems cause discomfort in more ways than one, but they can also make you feel self-conscious about your smile.
While some issues may be purely cosmetic, others can significantly impact your oral health, which also ultimately affects your quality of life. However, orthodontic treatments have come a long way, and there are numerous ways to treat these issues and achieve a beautiful, healthy smile. Keep reading to learn more!
What are the Common Orthodontic Problems?
1. Underbite
Let’s start with underbites, which occur when your lower teeth protrude more in front of your upper teeth. This can lead to a world of problems, including difficulty in chewing, speaking, and even jaw pain. Thankfully, there are several treatment options available, such as braces, clear aligners, and in some cases, orthognathic surgery. Your orthodontist should recommend the best treatment plan depending on your underbite’s severity, and consider any other associated issues.
2. Overbite
Next on our list is an overbite, where your upper teeth overlap your lower teeth significantly. Overbites can cause a range of problems, including excessive tooth wear, gum irritation, and even jaw pain. Braces and clear aligners are the go-to treatments for overbites, gently moving the teeth into the desired position over time. In more severe cases, your orthodontist may recommend additional appliances or even surgery to correct the issue.
3. Crossbite
Crossbites occur when some of your upper teeth sit inside your lower teeth when you bite down. This can result in an asymmetric appearance and lead to tooth wear, gum disease, and even bone loss. Crossbite treatment options include braces, clear aligners, and in some cases, palatal expanders. Palatal expanders are devices that help widen the upper jaw, allowing for proper alignment of the teeth and bite correction.
4. Overjet
Also known as “buck teeth,” overjet occurs when your upper front teeth protrude excessively over your lower front teeth. Overjet can cause a variety of problems, such as difficulty biting and chewing, speech issues, and an increased risk of tooth damage. Treatment options for overjet typically involve braces or clear aligners to gradually reposition the teeth, and in some cases, additional orthodontic appliances may be recommended.
5. Crowding
Crowding is an orthodontic issue where your mouth may not have all the space necessary for all your teeth to fit properly, leading to crooked or overlapping teeth. Imagine cleaning your teeth when one overlaps the other—it definitely won’t be effective, so this also increases the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Treatment options for crowding depend on the severity of the issue and may include braces or clear aligners, tooth extraction, or even palate expanders to create more space in the mouth.
6. Spacing
Last but not least, we have spacing issues, where gaps or spaces are present between your teeth. While some people may find these gaps charming, they can also lead to food getting stuck between teeth, which can increase the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Be it traditional braces or the more modern alternative, clear aligners, both are the most common treatments for spacing issues, helping to close the gaps and align the teeth properly.
The Bottom Line
So there you have it, folks—a rundown of some of the most common orthodontic problems and their treatments. If you suspect that you or a loved one may be experiencing any of these common orthodontic issues, it’s essential to schedule a consultation with an orthodontist to discuss your treatment options.
With advances in orthodontic technology and techniques, achieving a healthy, beautiful smile is more accessible than ever before.
If you’re looking for a dentist in Lethbridge, look no further than London Road Dental. I provide comprehensive dental care for all my patients and am dedicated to helping them achieve a beautiful, healthy smile. Get in touch today!