An orthodontist can evaluate your teeth, gums, and jaw bones to determine if you need orthodontic treatment. If you had treatment as a child and your teeth have shifted, or if you’ve never had treatment and want to change your smile, Gray Orthodontics can help! So when should you see an orthodontist?
Common Orthodontic Problems
If you notice issues such as crowded teeth, large gaps between teeth, an underbite, or an overbite, it’s time to schedule an appointment. If you or your child have a misaligned bite, it can make simple tasks such as speaking and chewing difficult, as well as prematurely wear down tooth enamel. Other disorders, such as TMJ and sleep apnea, can stem from a misaligned bite as well. If you or anyone in your family suffers from the following problems, contact us today!
Crowded Teeth
When teeth erupt without enough room to develop, you may notice crowded areas. This can make it difficult to properly clean the surface of each tooth, leading to increased cavities and tooth decay, as well as aesthetic issues.
Large Gaps Between Teeth
If you have large spaces between your teeth, you may find it difficult to chew properly. Many patients with gaps between their teeth also notice overcrowding in another area.
Underbite
If your lower teeth jut out beyond your upper teeth, you have an underbite. Bite misalignments can make eating and speaking difficult, as well as create aesthetic issues.
Overbite
The opposite of an underbite, an overbite is when your upper teeth jut out beyond your lower teeth. You may notice that the bottom teeth often hit the roof of your mouth. Bite misalignments can make eating and speaking difficult, as well as create aesthetic issues.
Openbite
When the upper- and lower-front teeth do not overlap, this is called an openbite. You may suffer from a speech impediment or have difficulty chewing. Oftentimes, children who suck their thumbs or thrust their tongue to the front of their mouths suffer from openbites.
Crossbite
If your top teeth fall inside the lower teeth at an angle, you may have a crossbite. Crossbites can also make it difficult to eat and speak, as well as create aesthetic issues.