Common Orthodontic Problems: How Harmony Orthodontics Can Help
At Harmony Orthodontics in Gresham and Sandy, OR, we specialize in diagnosing and treating a variety of common orthodontic problems. Malocclusions, or misalignments of the teeth and jaws, can impact your ability to speak, eat, and maintain oral health. Left untreated, these issues can increase the risk of tooth damage, jaw joint problems, and other complications.
By addressing these problems, we can help you achieve a healthier, more functional, and aesthetically pleasing smile. Below, we’ve outlined some of the most frequent orthodontic issues we treat and how they can be corrected.
What Are Common Orthodontic Problems?
Orthodontic problems, or malocclusions, occur when teeth and jaws don’t align correctly. These conditions can be hereditary or develop due to habits or injuries. Treating these issues not only improves the appearance of your smile but also protects your oral health and overall well-being.
Types of Common Orthodontic Problems
1. Spacing
Spacing refers to gaps between teeth that can appear anywhere in the mouth.
Causes:
- Genetics, such as a small jawbone or missing teeth
- Thumb or finger sucking
- Tongue thrusting
Effects:
- Difficulty chewing
- Increased risk of gum issues
Treatment:
Braces or aligners can close gaps and create an even alignment.
2. Open Bite
An open bite occurs when the upper and lower teeth don’t meet when the jaw is closed.
Causes:
- Thumb sucking or finger sucking
- Tongue thrusting
- Chewing on objects like pencils
Effects:
- Difficulty chewing or speaking
- Excessive strain on jaw joints
Treatment:
Braces or behavior correction appliances can realign the teeth and jaws.
3. Deep Bite
A deep bite is when the upper front teeth excessively overlap the lower front teeth vertically.
Effects:
- Gum inflammation or recession
- Premature tooth wear
- Lower teeth biting into the palate
Treatment:
Orthodontic appliances like braces can adjust the bite to reduce overlap and prevent damage.
4. Excessive Overjet
Excessive overjet, or protrusion, occurs when the upper front teeth extend too far forward compared to the lower teeth.
Causes:
- A protruded upper jaw
- A retruded lower jaw
- Facial injuries
Effects:
- TMJ issues
- Abnormal tooth wear
Treatment:
Braces or other orthodontic devices can correct jaw alignment and reduce protrusion.
5. Crossbite
A crossbite happens when upper teeth bite inside lower teeth instead of outside.
Causes:
- Misaligned upper or lower jaws
Effects:
- Tooth wear
- Jaw joint stress
Treatment:
A palatal expander can widen the upper jaw, particularly in younger patients, to correct the alignment.
6. Overbite
An overbite occurs when the upper front teeth overlap the lower teeth significantly.
Effects:
- Lower teeth biting the palate
- Difficulty chewing
Treatment:
Braces are commonly used to correct overbites during adolescence, but adult braces are also effective.
7. Underbite
An underbite, also known as prognathism, is when the lower teeth overlap the upper teeth.
Causes:
- Misalignment of the lower jaw, often present from birth
Effects:
- Difficulty chewing and speaking
- Aesthetic concerns
Treatment:
Braces, aligners, or surgical intervention can correct underbites and improve jaw alignment.
How Harmony Orthodontics Can Help
At Harmony Orthodontics, we provide personalized treatment plans to address common orthodontic problems effectively. Whether you or your child is experiencing spacing issues, bite problems, or jaw misalignments, our experienced team is here to help.
Why Choose Harmony Orthodontics?
- Comprehensive Care: We treat a wide range of orthodontic problems with advanced solutions.
- Personalized Treatment: Every patient receives a custom plan tailored to their needs.
- Convenient Locations: Serving Gresham and Sandy, OR, we’re committed to making orthodontic care accessible to our community.
Schedule Your Free Consultation Today
Orthodontic treatment can fix all the issues mentioned above and more. If you or your child is experiencing any orthodontic problems, don’t wait—contact Harmony Orthodontics today to schedule your free consultation. We look forward to helping you achieve a healthier, straighter smile!