Everyone has a different smile and therefore each individual bite problem is unique.
In orthodontics, your “bite” refers to the way the upper and lower teeth come together. In a perfect bite, both the upper and lower teeth should properly meet when biting down. However, due to malocclusions (or bad bites), teeth often improperly meet.
Fortunately, common bite problems can be corrected by a specialist Orthodontist. When you visit an Orthodontist, you will have a chance to see and understand the types of bite problems that affect patients of all ages. Orthodontists are focused on helping patients not only to enhance their smiles but also to correct the bite function and this way create long-lasting smiles.
The following are 6 common bite problems typically found in children and adults and that can be corrected if you decide to undergo and Orthodontic treatment.
1- TEETH CROWDING
This is a common teeth misalignment issue that happens due to lack of space in the dental arches for the teeth to fit in. For this reason, teeth have crooked contours and/or overlap with each other, creating an overcrowded atmosphere within the inside of the mouth.
2- OVERBITE OR DEEP BITE
This type of bite problem happens when the anterior upper front teeth excessively overlap the lower front teeth.
Overbites are one of the most frequently seen dental bite issues among patients, and it is often related to having a small or narrow dental arch.
While it may seem like a simple aesthetic issue, a deep overbite can cause patients to grind their teeth or clench their jaws often which causes discomfort and chronic headaches. Patients with an overbite can have other problems like weak gums, increased damage to the enamel, rapid tooth wear, and difficulty eating.
3- CROSSBITE
A cross-bite happens when the upper teeth bite down on the insides of the lower teeth, which means that the upper arch is smaller than the lower, when in a normal situation should be the opposite way.
Crossbites can happen either on single tooth or multiple teeth. And can also affect both front and back teeth. They can also occur with the baby and permanent teeth.
In general, crossbites could be considered one of the more serious bite problems an individual can have. The misalignment of the teeth can cause a broad range of issues like lopsided jaw growth, a lopsided facial appearance, and excessive wearing down of the enamel.
4- DIASTEMAS
Diastemas are basically spaces or gaps between the teeth. Most commonly these gaps appear between two upper or lower front teeth. Causes of this condition are mostly the mismatch between the size of the jawbone and the teeth, this leaves extra space between the teeth. If a person has some of their teeth missing, it can also cause gaps to appear.
5- OPEN BITE
There are two types of open bite: Posterior and anterior. In an anterior open bite, the front teeth do not close while the back teeth do. In posterior open bite, the front teeth close together but the back teeth do not.
Sometimes an open bite can be caused by having small or irregularly sized teeth, but the issue is also influenced by childhood behaviors like breathing through the mouth, sucking a thumb, or constantly pushing. Some consequences of an untreated open bite include trouble swallowing and the development of speech impediments.
6- PROTRUSION
A protrusion is when the front teeth have and increased angulation, making them stick out at an odd angle. Some childhood behaviors can also cause a protrusion, including sucking one’s thumb as an older child.
Protrusions have the longest list of consequences and can be extremely uncomfortable. Untreated protrusions can result in permanent tooth loss, an increased risk of breaking the front teeth, trouble closing the mouth, mouth breathing, and excessive oral dryness leading to tooth decay.
In conclusion, there are many types of bite problems that can affect children and adults alike. If you or someone you know is experiencing one of these issues, visit our center to get and Orthodontic consultation and we will guide you through the best treatment option for your particular type or bite.
Specialist Orthodontist
