Common Bite Problems

When the teeth or jaws don’t fit together properly — a condition known as malocclusion or “bad bite” — orthodontic treatment may be needed to restore proper form and function. Without correction, these issues can lead to speech difficulties, premature enamel wear, and a higher risk of injury to the teeth and jaw joints.

Underbite

An underbite occurs when the lower jaw extends too far, causing the lower front teeth to sit in front of the upper front teeth.

Crossbite

A crossbite happens when the upper teeth sit inside the lower teeth, leading to uneven wear, jaw misalignment, and sometimes facial asymmetry.

Protrusion

Protrusion occurs when the upper front teeth extend too far forward or the lower teeth don’t extend far enough, affecting both the appearance and function of your bite.

Overbite

An overbite occurs when the upper front teeth overlap the lower teeth, which can cause biting the roof of the mouth, a “gummy” smile, protruding lips, and excessive front tooth wear.

Crowding

Crowding happens when teeth don’t have enough space to emerge properly. It’s a common reason for braces, as overlapping teeth can be hard to clean and may lead to tooth decay or gum problems. Palatal expansion can often correct crowding and help avoid extractions.

Spacing

Spacing occurs when there’s extra room in the jaw, causing gaps between teeth. It may result from missing or misaligned teeth and is a common reason for braces, sometimes primarily for cosmetic purposes.

Openbite

An openbite occurs when the upper and lower front teeth don’t overlap, which can affect proper chewing. It may result from habits like thumb sucking or tongue thrusting, and early evaluation is important for effective correction.

Midlines

A dental midline mismatch occurs when the center of the upper teeth doesn’t align with the center of the lower teeth, which can affect proper jaw and dental function.