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From crooked teeth to a crossbite, we can successfully treat all types of orthodontic concerns.

Orthodontics San Diego

An accurate diagnosis is key

Below, we’re sharing some of the most common types of malocclusion (bad bite) we see here at San Diego Smile Pros. But, keep in mind, getting an accurate diagnosis from an orthodontic specialist like Dr. Durschlag is important. It ensures treatment will shift your teeth in a way that isn’t just cosmetic, but also gives you a strong, healthy bite. Read on or schedule a complimentary consultation today!

Crowding

Crowding

Crowding happens when the jaw is too small to fit all of the teeth. This can cause the teeth to overlap, come in crooked or get blocked out of line. Genetics and the early or late loss of baby teeth are usually behind the issue.

Why does it need to be corrected?

Crowding makes you susceptible to cavities and gum disease, because the teeth are harder to effectively clean. The upper and lower teeth will come together abnormally, causing uneven enamel wear as well.

Spacing

Spacing

Spacing is when there are gaps between two or more teeth. Spacing can be genetic or due to tooth loss or poor oral habits (i.e., prolonged thumb sucking or pacifier use).

Why does it need to be corrected?

Food and plaque often get caught in the spaces, increasing your risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Gaps between the teeth may also impact the health of your gums and cause jawbone loss.

Overjet

Overjet

When the front teeth stick out too far in front of the bottom teeth, we refer to it as overjet teeth. Overjet teeth, or protruding teeth, can be genetic or caused by prolonged thumb sucking, tongue thrust or pacifier use.

Why does it need to be corrected?

Protruding front teeth are directly in harm’s way, making them more likely to be damaged if you sustain a blow to the face. Overjet can also cause jaw pain, excessive enamel wear and speech problems.

Overbite

Overbite (Deep Bite)

Overbite refers to the degree that the top front teeth vertically overlap the bottom front teeth. While almost everyone has at least some amount of overbite, when the top teeth cover most of the bottom teeth, it’s called an excessive overbite, or deep bite. Sometimes, the lower teeth can even bite into the roof of the mouth.

An excessive overbite is usually genetic, but aging and teeth grinding and clenching (bruxism) can play a role too.

Why does it need to be corrected?

Having an excessive overbite puts you at risk for tooth decay and gum disease and can result in excessive enamel wear, jaw and temporomandibular (TMJ) pain and difficulty chewing.

Underbite

Underbite

A patient is said to have an underbite when their lower teeth sit in front of their upper teeth when the jaws are closed. An underbite is most frequently genetic and happens when the upper and lower jaw grow at different rates.

Why does it need to be corrected?

An underbite interferes with chewing and speaking, can impact breathing, and may cause jaw and TMJ pain. Early diagnosis and treatment will be extremely beneficial and help patients avoid the need for corrective jaw surgery down the road.

Crossbite

Crossbite

When one or more of the bottom teeth sit outside of the top teeth, it’s called a crossbite. A front crossbite, or anterior crossbite, is when teeth in the front of the mouth are involved. A back crossbite, or posterior crossbite, is when the back teeth are involved. Crossbites can be caused by genetics, oral habits or trauma.

Why does it need to be corrected?

Depending on the type and severity of the crossbite, patients sometimes compensate by shifting their jaw to one side. This can cause permanent changes in the jaw and facial structure. In these cases, early interceptive orthodontic treatment may be necessary. If not treated, a crossbite can also cause difficulty chewing, excessive wear of the enamel and jaw pain.

Openbite

Open Bite

When the top and bottom teeth don’t meet when the jaw is closed, it’s called an open bite. An open bite can be the result of an abnormal swallowing pattern, prolonged pacifier use or thumb sucking.

Why does it need to be corrected?

An open bite makes it difficult to bite into food and chew. It can also interfere with speech, cause the teeth that take on the brunt of the chewing forces to break down, and lead to headaches and jaw pain.

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