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Orthodontics is used to treat a wide range of different malocclusions (problems with the fit of the teeth and jaw). In this section, you will find a description of the most common orthodontic problems. Please consult our Glossary of Orthodontic Appliances to read about the different appliances we use to treat these problems.
Asymmetry describes the condition when the midline of the teeth are not properly aligned. The spaces between the two upper front teeth and the two lower front teeth should line up with each other. Additionally, both spaces should line up with the middle of the nose.
Often the asymmetry is caused by shifted teeth or a shifted lower jaw. This can also cause an improper bite, leading to other long term problems.
Some people clench or grind their teeth. This habit may be unconscious, and might even only happen when they are asleep. Clenching and grinding can cause headaches, injure the jaw joints and muscles, be distracting or painful, and wear down teeth prematurely.
Clenching and grinding may come from a bad bite, stress or a number of other factors.
If the source of the problem is a bad bite, orthodontics can be used to correct it. Even if the clenching and grinding cannot be prevented (i.e. it is an unconscious reaction to stress), orthodontic appliances can be made to protect the jaw and teeth and reduce the side-effects of the clenching or grinding.
Clicking or popping of the jaw, especially when chewing, is not uncommon for people who have jaw joint problems. This clicking can be distracting, can sometimes be associated with pain, and may be indicative of other jaw problems.
A crossbite occurs when the back teeth to do not line up when biting down. For example, the upper back teeth might fit inside, instead of outside, the lower back teeth. This might occur on one or both sides.
Crowding describes the condition that occurs when the teeth overlap with each other because they are too close together. There is not enough space between the teeth, and often not enough room in the jaw for all the teeth to fit in properly. Sometimes teeth will have to be removed to deal with the crowding.
A deep bite occurs when the upper front teeth cover the lower front teeth too much. In some cases the lower front teeth might damage the gums behind the upper teeth.
Excess spacing describes the condition of when there are noticeable gaps between the teeth.
Excess tooth wear is caused by some underlying condition, such as tooth grinding or a bad bite, that is wearing down the teeth prematurely. The tooth wear makes the teeth weaker, more susceptible to cavities, can make it harder to chew, and if not treated can lead to eventual tooth loss.
Some people feel pain on the movement of their jaw. This may be caused by a problem with the jaw joint, often because the jaw muscles are trying to compensate for a problem in the bite and in doing so are putting pressure on the jaw joint.
Jaw problems can cause headaches. Sometimes the pain from the jaw joint may mimic ear pain. Fixing the underlying problems can relieve pressure on the jaw joint and eliminate the pain.
An openbite is a bite where the top and bottom teeth do not all touch each other when the jaw is closed. For instance, the front teeth might be too far apart and not touch when the back teeth are biting down. This can make it hard to chew and can lead to long term jaw problems.
An overbite is when the front upper teeth overlap the lower teeth excessively and generally protrude too far from the mouth. This is one of the most common orthodontic problem. In addition to appearance issues, it can interfere with the functioning of the teeth and cause excessive wear to the lower teeth.
An overjet is quite similar, but occurs when the lower teeth are too far back, often due to a less developed lower jaw.
Underbite occurs when the upper front teeth sit behind the lower front teeth when the jaw is shut, instead of in front of them.
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