Uncovering the Most Common Orthodontic Problems
Orthodontic problems can happen to anyone. Several factors, including genetics, tooth loss, thumb sucking, tongue thrusting, dental trauma, and periodontal disease cause them. The good news is that you don’t have to live with crooked teeth or a bad bite.
Are you grappling with orthodontic issues? Welcome to West London Orthodontist Cosmetic Dental Studios for expert orthodontic care. Our lead dentist, Dr. Chaw Su Kyi, is a renowned orthodontist with industry-leading results in London, UK, and surrounding areas. Her in-depth skills and experience address even complex orthodontic cases referred by other dentists and orthodontists. Let us fix your smile and get your teeth looking healthier in no time.
What are the common orthodontic problems?
Having straight teeth is not just about aesthetics; it also boosts your confidence and improves oral health. But what if your teeth aren’t well aligned? Moreover, how can an orthodontist address these issues? Let’s look at the common orthodontic problems and how they are treated.
• Overbite: Also known as class II malocclusion, an overbite occurs when the upper front teeth overlap the lower teeth. An overbite can cause numerous problems, such as joint pain, a gummy smile, and difficulties with speech and eating.
• Underbite: Class III malocclusion is the opposite of an overbite. It’s caused by an overgrowth or protrusion of the lower front teeth in relation to the upper teeth. Correcting an underbite can significantly improve aesthetics, speaking, and chewing.
• Crooked teeth: Teeth not in line occur during an eruption or over time because of jaw development issues, tooth loss, and other factors. Tooth crookedness is one of the leading reasons many patients visit our office. Misaligned teeth affect self-esteem and appearance. In some cases, it may diminish your chewing ability and cause TMJ-related pain.
• Open bite: This orthodontic issue occurs when the upper and lower teeth don’t meet (occlude) when you close your mouth. An open bite causes speech and eating problems and even jaw pain.
• Overcrowding: Overlapping occurs when the jawbone has insufficient space for all teeth to erupt properly. Due to hidden spots created by overlapping teeth, overcrowding diminishes aesthetics and complicates oral hygiene.
• Crossbite: It’s a malocclusion characterized by abnormal teeth positioning when you close your jaws. A crossbite occurs when one or more upper jaw teeth bite inside the lower jaw rather than outside.
• Gaping/spacing: It’s the opposite of overcrowding, where you have excess spaces between teeth. Small teeth, large jawbone, or tooth loss can cause gapped teeth. Excessive spaces between teeth can affect your speech and aesthetics.
How do we address orthodontic problems?
We understand that orthodontic issues come in different shapes and sizes. That’s why Dr. Kyi and the team offer several orthodontic treatments to suit various needs. After an in-depth examination, we’ll devise a personalized treatment plan. Our services include traditional braces, which provide an affordable and effective solution for mild to severe orthodontic problems. We also offer Invisalign orthodontics for patients with mild to moderate dental issues who are insecure about metal braces.
What are the most difficult orthodontic cases?
The most challenging cases often involve severe misalignment, complex jaw irregularities, or congenital issues like cleft palate. Deep overbites, crossbites, or severe crowding requiring extractions are also complex. For adults, tooth movement and jaw alignment issues can be more difficult due to mature bone structures. Cases needing both orthodontic and surgical intervention, like orthognathic surgery, are particularly demanding, requiring a multi-disciplinary approach and extended treatment timelines.
What do most orthodontic problems arise from?
Orthodontic problems stems from genetic and environmental factors. Genetics play a substantial role, with crowding, spacing, overbites, underbites, and jaw misalignment often inherited. Environmental factors, especially during childhood, also contribute. Prolonged thumb-sucking, pacifier use, mouth breathing, and early loss of primary teeth can all disrupt natural development, leading to misaligned bite (malocclusion) and other issues needing orthodontic treatment.
Can orthodontic treatment go wrong?
Orthodontic treatment can occasionally encounter complications, but with a qualified orthodontist, these risks are minimized. Issues include prolonged treatment times, gum recession, and enamel wear from braces. If orthodontic appliances are not maintained, tooth decay or staining around brackets may occur. Misalignment due to poor planning or not following the post-treatment care (like wearing retainers) may cause teeth to shift back. It’s crucial to choose an experienced orthodontist and follow their guidance closely.
What does a crowded mouth look like?
A crowded mouth appears when teeth overlap or appear messy because there isn’t enough space to align the jaw. This pushes some teeth forward, backward, or causes them to rotate to fit. Crowded teeth may create tight spaces that are difficult to clean, increasing decay and gum disease risk. A crowded mouth looks uneven, with some teeth visibly out of line.
What happens if you don’t get orthodontic treatment?
If untreated, orthodontic issues can lead to oral health problems. Misaligned teeth and jaws increase the risk of decay, gum disease, and difficulty chewing, which can strain the jaw muscles. Malocclusion can cause tooth wear, enamel damage, and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders in severe cases. Untreated problems can also affect self-confidence, especially regarding smile appearance.
What are some common problems with braces?
Braces can cause complications, including soreness after adjustments, irritation to the gums or inner cheeks, and broken brackets or wires from eating hard or sticky foods. Poor oral hygiene can lead to plaque buildup, increasing cavities and gum disease risk. Some patients may experience enamel demineralization around braces. Regular orthodontic check-ups help mitigate these problems.
What is the most common orthodontic treatment?
The most common treatment is traditional metal braces. Metal braces are effective for correcting crowding, spacing, and alignment. Other popular treatments include clear aligners like Invisalign, which adults and teens favor for their discreet appearance. Metal braces offer more control in complex cases, while clear aligners provide convenience and aesthetic appeal for mild to moderate misalignment.
Ready to reclaim your straight, healthy smile?
Are you concerned about the progression of your orthodontic issues? Look no further than West London Orthodontist Cosmetic Dental Studios! Our finest orthodontic specialist in London, Dr. Kyi, will identify the root cause of your problem and offer a long-lasting solution. Call 020 8129 6868 to schedule an appointment.
