If you’re self-conscious about your grin due to dental issues such as a misaligned bite or spacing problems, orthodontics can help. Although orthodontics is commonly associated with kids and teens, adults can benefit from it as well. Here are three bite problems braces and clear aligners can fix. 

3 Bite Issues Orthodontics Can Treat 

1. Spacing 

One of the most common issues orthodontics can fix is spacing. Overlapping teeth, as well as gaps, can affect your smile. Overcrowded teeth can also make it difficult to properly care for your mouth, as it’s challenging to reach deep into the crevices to clean food particles. Wide gaps, on the other hand, can easily catch food particles. Both issues can increase the risk of cavities. Orthodontic treatments can correct spacing to reduce discomfort and improve your appearance. 

2. Underbite & Overbite

An underbite occurs when the lower teeth overlap the top row. This can create a “bulldog” appearance and cause dental health issues. An overbite is when the top row of teeth overlaps the bottom. When the bottom row rubs against the top in either case, friction can wear down the enamel and cause jaw pain and headaches from bruxism, or nighttime teeth grinding. It may also cause issues with eating and speaking. Orthodontic mechanisms, such as braces and retainers, can correct an underbite and overbite, and prevent pain.

3. Open Bite

Open bites occur when there is a space between the lower and upper teeth when the mouth is shut. This can be caused by excessive thumb-sucking in early childhood or using a pacifier for too long. It can cause a lisp and difficulty chewing. It may also lead to temporomandibular joint syndrome, which causes pain in the jaw joint and surrounding muscles. An orthodontist can correct an open bite by repositioning the teeth using braces.
 

If you’re interested in orthodontics to correct any of these concerns, turn to BridgeView Dental Group in Kodiak, AK. Dr. Hyrum Murdoch and Dr. Chad Winthrop and their team provide a range of services from orthodontics to emergency dentistry. Call (907) 486-3257 to schedule an appointment or visit their website to learn more about their dental services.