Although most people want a straight smile because it looks good, you receive other benefits of orthodontic treatment. Crowded and crooked teeth are harder to maintain, which can result in increased problems with tooth decay or gum disease. As well, a bad bite, or malocclusion, can make chewing difficult and cause uneven tooth wear.

Common orthodontic issues include:

Crossbite
This type of problem occurs when the upper teeth rest significantly inside or outside the lower teeth. Crossbites make chewing tough and can cause issues with proper jaw growth.

Crowding
A small mouth, larger teeth, or a narrow jaw can make it difficult for permanent teeth to move into the correct spot.

Deep overbite
If the incisors, the upper front teeth, overlap too far over the lower teeth, a deep overbite results.

Under bite
The lower teeth can be positioned ahead of the upper teeth and create an under bite, which may suggest that the jaws are not in the right position.

Open bite
When your upper and lower teeth don’t meet as you bite down, this condition is called an open bite. Having an open bite can make biting difficult, impact speech, and produce uneven wear on teeth.

Spacing problems
If an individual has particularly small teeth or has lost teeth, this situation can produce larger spaces between teeth.

Because each person’s bite is different, the orthodontic treatment course will vary slightly from individual to individual. Braces are a common choice to correct bite issues. Your orthodontist will evaluate your mouth and then create a detailed plan for improving your smile and oral health.

We create beautiful smiles at Mehdi Fotovat Sherman Oaks Orthodontist