Orthodontic problems can happen to anyone, at any stage of life. These problems not only affect the appearance of your teeth but can also cause pain and discomfort, and sometimes lead to more serious dental issues. As a dental patient, it is essential to understand the different types of orthodontic problems that exist so that you can recognize them and seek treatment early on at Burlingame Smile Studio. We serve Burlingame, CA, Hillsborough, and Millbrae.
In this article, we will take a closer look at some of the most common orthodontic problems and what you can do to prevent or treat them.
1. Crooked Teeth:
If your teeth do not line up as they should, the condition is known as malocclusion. Malocclusion can cause crooked teeth, overlapping, or overcrowding. It can also affect your bite, leading to problems with chewing and speaking.
Crooked teeth can be caused by a wide array of reasons ranging from genetics to poor dental hygiene. Regardless of the cause, crooked teeth can be treated with orthodontic appliances like braces or aligners. Braces are the most common method to straighten teeth, and as an orthodontic patient, you may be required to wear them for an extended period.
2. Overbite:
Overbite is when your upper jaw protrudes outwards, causing your upper teeth to overlap your lower teeth. Overbite can interfere with your bite alignment and cause issues with chewing or speaking. If left untreated, an overbite may also lead to jaw pain or TMJ disorders.
Dental patients with an overbite can seek treatment from an orthodontist. The first course of action is to identify the cause of the overbite. If it is caused by genetics, braces or aligners are usually the recommended treatment options.
3. Underbite:
When your lower jaw protrudes, you develop an underbite. In this condition, the bottom teeth stick out and cover the upper teeth. Underbite can cause difficulties with speaking and chewing and may lead to multiple dental issues. Dental patients with an underbite may seek treatment from an orthodontist.
Treatment options include braces or aligners, or other appliances such as headgear. In severe cases, oral surgery may be required.
4. Crossbite:
A crossbite is when your top teeth sit inside your bottom teeth. It can affect the jaw, causing an asymmetrical look or facial pain. A crossbite can be caused by both genetics and habitual behaviors like thumb-sucking or pacifier use. If left untreated, crossbite can lead to enamel erosion, gum disease, and tooth decay.
Dental patients with a crossbite can seek treatment from an orthodontist. Treatment options vary based on the cause of the crossbite, but usually involve braces or other orthodontic appliances.
5. Open bite:
An open bite occurs when your teeth do not meet correctly and leave a gap between your upper and lower teeth. Open bite can cause speech difficulties, chewing, and jaw pain. It can be caused by genetic and other habitual factors such as tongue thrusting and thumb-sucking.
Treatment options for open bite include braces, aligners, and other orthodontic appliances depending on the severity of the case. In some cases, orthodontic surgery may be recommended.
Orthodontic problems vary in their design, complexity, and severity. Each of the problems we discussed has different causes and different forms of treatment. As a dental patient, it is essential to recognize the symptoms and seek appropriate orthodontic care proactively.
Finally, it is important that you pay close attention to your dental hygiene and care. Orthodontic treatment like braces or aligners requires that you take special care of your teeth and mouth during the treatment period.
By following the advice of orthodontists, practicing good dental hygiene, and seeking professional treatment for your orthodontic problems, you can ensure your beautiful dream smile.
Contact Dr. April Lee at Burlingame Smile Studio we serve Burlingame, CA, Hillsborough, and Millbrae.
(650) 231-2680
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
1740 Marco Polo Way Ste 12
Burlingame, California
94010
