8 Types of Bite Problems That Need Orthodontic Treatment

Having both jaws perfectly aligned is ideal, but not everyone has perfect jaw alignment. This misalignment is known as a malocclusion. For the treatment of malocclusion, people need to take orthodontic help. If left untreated, malocclusions can cause severe orthodontic problems in the future. 

Let us understand the eight different types of bite problems that can be treated:

1. Crossbite
In a crossbite, the teeth are not aligned properly and can appear disrupted. Patients may have to move their upper jaw to one side to close their mouth properly.

A retainer or palate expander can be used to correct a crossbite.

2. Underbite
If the lower jaw protrudes out more than the upper jaw, the person has underbite issues.  If not treated on time, this can lead to a host of other bite problems. It also causes facial asymmetry.

Underbites can be corrected by growth modification of jaws, extraction of teeth, palatal expansion, and in some cases the surgical movement of the jaws. 

3. Open bite
In an open bite, the upper and lower jaw both are not aligned with each other. This creates a space between the upper and lower teeth. It can cause severe chewing issues. 

Open bites can be corrected through the extrusion of teeth, growth modification of the jaws, and surgical correction of jaws. 

4. Overbite
In an overbite, the teeth of the upper jaw rest in front of the lower jaw. The teeth overlap in such a way that it hides the lower teeth altogether. Thus, the smile may show fewer teeth and more gums. Overbites can cause wearing down of incisors and lead to protruding lips. 

Overbites can be treated by levelling of front and back teeth.

5. Crowding
This happens when teeth don’t have sufficient space to erupt from the gums. It is linked to periodontal problems and dental decay as it is harder to clean overlapping teeth surfaces. 

Braces are used to fix teeth crowding. 

6. Spacing
If the structure of the jaw is too big, and the teeth have ample space to erupt, teeth spacing problems arise. In case you have a missing tooth or have had some teeth removed, the rest of the teeth find enough room to spread out, causing spacing problems. 

Braces are used to correct spacing issues in the mouth. In severe cases, orthognathic surgery is also used to reshape the jaw. 

7. Dental Midlines not Matched
For the jaw to function normally, without disruptions, the dental midlines should be attached to the jaw. Although the alignment is for aesthetic reasons, if left untreated, it can lead to other bite problems.

Misplaced midlines are treated by using braces. In some cases, surgery of the jaw may be required. 

8. Protrusion
It is characterized by the upper jaw protruding forward extensively. The functionality of the teeth and jaw are compromised, and the person cannot bite or use their front teeth properly. 

The regular use of braces can correct the protrusion of the teeth.

If you suspect having any of the above bite problems, contact your orthodontist today, so that they can be treated in time.

---

​By Emily Taylor

Emily Taylor ​found the perfect fit for herself as the Online Marketing Manager at Thurman Orthodontics in Fresno, CA as she believes that a great smile does more than just make a person look great – it makes them feel great as well. The power of a smile has always been a mystery to Emily, and she loves researching and writing about it. She loves to write about everything to do with a healthy bite and a beautiful smile – weather is it ways to achieve it or the importance of it in the various aspects of life. What brings a big smile on Emily’s face is her family and surfing. She also likes to bake, and her children and co-workers call her the cookie fairy!