Problems orthodontists can fix

While each of us has our own unique set of teeth, there are some common problems many of us may experience. Fortunately, our orthodontists are trained to treat each of these problems and do so with great results.

Here are 10 of the most common types of orthodontic problems:

Crowding

One of the most common orthodontic problems is crowding. This occurs when teeth have to fight for space and results in crooked and overlapping teeth.

Spacing

The opposite of crowding is spacing when teeth can’t fill the amount of space available. This can result in big gaps between teeth.

Protrusion

Protrusion refers to the condition where top front teeth sit out more than is normal. This can also leave a big gap between the front top and bottom teeth.

Reverse bite

The opposite of protrusion is a reverse bite. This refers to the condition where the bottom front teeth sit out more than normal. This means the bottom teeth will sit in front of the top teeth when you bite. This may also be known as an underbite or lower jaw protrusion.

Open bite

Open bite refers to the condition when the top and bottom teeth do not meet when you bite. This can result in a gap between the front top and bottom teeth. An open bite can also affect back teeth.

Overjet

Overjet is a condition where the front top teeth sit out and over the top of the lower front teeth. This can result in a horizontal gap between the sets of front teeth.

Crossbite

A crossbite occurs when one or more of the lower teeth sit outside the upper teeth, usually along the side of your jaw.

Deep bite

The opposite of an open bite, a deep bite occurs when the top front teeth cover almost all of the lower front teeth when you bite. This is also known as an overbite.

Tooth wear

Tooth wear is a little bit like erosion of your teeth. Over time, our teeth can wear out as a result of age, eating and drinking highly acidic foods, or grinding your teeth.

Periodontal disease

Periodontal disease refers to disease of the gums. This can be in the form of inflammation, also known as gingivitis, or more serious conditions that affect the bone and tissue of the gums.