Malocclusion encompasses misalignments between the upper and lower teeth, affecting the overall bite. Common malocclusion conditions include overcrowding, overbite, crossbite, open bite, underbite, spacing, impacted tooth, and missing tooth.
Teeth Overcrowding
Dental crowding occurs when teeth overlap or are misaligned, and it is a condition often referred to by orthodontists as malocclusion. This overcrowding is marked by insufficient space for the teeth to fit within the jaws properly and can result from the rotation or displacement of teeth. Braces are an effective solution for preventing or correcting mild crowding of teeth (less than 4 mm). In cases of moderate crowding (4 to 8 mm) or severe crowding (more than 8 mm), the removal of some teeth (extraction) may be necessary. Fixed braces are applied to permanent teeth, while removable braces can be utilized for both baby and permanent teeth.
Overbite
An overbite denotes a misalignment of the teeth where your upper front teeth tend to extend in front of your lower front teeth. This condition falls under malocclusion, a term encompassing any form of misaligned or crooked teeth. Treatment options for an overbite encompass braces, aligners, and orthodontic surgery. Without intervention, an overbite can lead to complications such as speech difficulties and temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD).
Crossbite
A crossbite occurs when your teeth fail to align correctly when your mouth is closed. This misalignment can impact a single tooth or groups of teeth, such as the front or back teeth. Typically, the upper teeth are naturally broader and positioned on the outer side of the lower teeth.
Correcting a crossbite typically involves orthodontic interventions, commonly using options like braces.
Open Bite
When individuals mention an open bite, they commonly refer to an anterior open bite. In cases of an anterior open bite, the front upper and lower teeth slant outward, resulting in a gap when the mouth is closed. An open bite falls under malocclusion, indicating a misalignment of the teeth when the jaws are closed. Both metal and ceramic braces serve as excellent treatment choices for addressing an open bite.
Malocclusions and their correction should be overseen in the office by our licensed and experienced orthodontist. Contact us for more information.
About Us • Raleigh Family Ortho Learn more about Dr. Lee & Dr. Neill, their Raleigh dental practice, and some basic information about orthodontics. Call us today to schedule! Raleigh Family Orthodontics, 9201 Leesville Rd STE 160, Raleigh, NC 27613 • (984) 254-0585 • raleighfamilyortho.com • 5/7/2024 • Related Phrases: orthodontist RALEIGH NC •
Malocclusion encompasses misalignments between the upper and lower teeth, affecting the overall bite. Common malocclusion conditions include overcrowding, overbite, crossbite, open bite, underbite, spacing, impacted tooth, and missing tooth.