Share:

Orthodontics can significantly improve a person’s appearance, creating a perfectly-aligned, beautiful smile. But braces, spacers, and other treatments can also help prevent oral health issues, including uneven teeth wear, jaw pain, and gum disease. Here are four of the most common conditions orthodontic care is used to treat. 

4 Oral Health Issues Orthodontics Can Treat 

1. Overbite

orthodonticsAn overbite is when the top teeth overlap the bottom. Also known as “buck teeth,” it can be caused by genetics, bone development patterns, or prolonged thumb-sucking. It can lead to temporomandibular joint (TMJ) issues and uneven wear on the teeth. Orthodontists often treat this issue by either removing excess teeth so that incoming teeth can grow freely or by straightening teeth with braces.

2. Crossbite

In a properly-aligned mouth, the outer ridge of the lower teeth makes contact with the middle of the upper teeth. When the dental arches don’t line up, it’s known as an overbite. This is typically a result of jaw misalignment. Like an overbite, it can cause uneven wear patterns on the teeth. It can also contribute to gum disease and bone loss. Braces and trainers can correct this issue.

3. Teeth Crowding

Overcrowding occurs when there is not enough space in the mouth for all teeth to fit properly. Sometimes, this happens because kids lose their baby teeth too soon or too late, and permanent teeth come in before they’ve lost the baby teeth. Overcrowding can make it difficult to maintain proper oral health and brush and floss effectively, which can lead to issues such as cavities and gum disease. Orthodontists usually recommend removing wisdom teeth to prevent overcrowding. 

4. Underbite

An underbite is a condition in which the lower teeth protrude further forward than the upper teeth. It may be a result of irregular jaw development or missing upper teeth. The problem can lead to issues such as TMJ and unhealthy wear on the teeth. Treatments include jaw surgery to pull the bone backward, braces, mouthguards, and tooth extraction to alleviate pressure. 

 

 

If you’re a Kodiak Island, AK, resident, turn to BridgeView Dental Group for comprehensive family dentistry, including orthodontics. Whether your child needs braces or you need teeth cleaning or root canal procedure, they provide compassionate, experienced dental care. Call (907) 486-3257 to schedule an appointment or visit the website to learn more about how they can help your family maintain healthy, bright smiles. 

tracking