Orthodontic Problems

The term for teeth and jaws that do not fit and bite together properly is “malocclusion.” Most malocclusions are inherited, but some can be acquired.

Inherited problems include crowding or spacing of teeth caused by a difference in the size of the teeth and jaws or differing facial patterns of the parents.

Acquired problems may be caused by finger sucking, tongue position, airway obstruction, dental disease and early or late loss of the baby teeth.

Untreated malocclusions can contribute to conditions that cause tooth decay, gum disease, bone destruction, loss of teeth, jaw joint problems, abnormal jaw growth, mouth breathing, tongue thrusting, speech problems and nutritional deficiencies.

Problems to Look For:

Crowded or misplaced teeth
Spaces between the teeth
Protruding teeth
Overbite and underbite
Early or late loss of baby teeth
Finger sucking or other oral habits
Difficulty chewing or biting
Speech difficulty
Facial or profile imbalance
Biting the cheek or roof of the mouth
Teeth that don’t close together
Jaws that shift or make sounds
Jaws that protrude or retrude