Orthodontic issues can affect individuals of all ages, impacting not only the appearance of the smile but also the functionality and health of the teeth and jaws. At Wentz Orthodontics in Lubbock, TX, we are dedicated to diagnosing and treating a wide range of orthodontic problems using advanced techniques and personalized care. In this blog, we’ll explore some common orthodontic problems and how they are treated.
Crowded Teeth
Crowded teeth occur when there is insufficient space in the jaw for all the teeth to fit properly. This can cause teeth to overlap, twist, or become displaced. Treatment options for crowded teeth typically include traditional metal braces, ceramic braces, or self-ligating braces (Damon Smile) to gradually move teeth into their correct positions. Invisalign® clear aligners can also be used to treat mild to moderate crowding, providing a discreet option. In severe cases, one or more teeth may need to be extracted to create space for proper alignment.
Spacing Issues
Spacing issues refer to gaps or spaces between teeth, which can result from missing teeth, growth discrepancies, or habits such as thumb sucking. Braces can close gaps and align the teeth correctly, while Invisalign® clear aligners can effectively close gaps and improve overall tooth alignment. For gaps due to missing teeth, dental implants or bridges may be recommended in conjunction with orthodontic treatment to restore function and aesthetics.
Overbite
An overbite occurs when the upper front teeth significantly overlap the lower front teeth. This can lead to excessive wear on the teeth and potential jaw pain. Orthodontic treatment for an overbite often involves braces to move the upper and lower teeth into proper alignment. Invisalign® clear aligners can also be used to treat mild to moderate overbites. In severe cases, orthognathic surgery may be needed to correct the jaw alignment and achieve optimal results.
Underbite
An underbite occurs when the lower front teeth extend beyond the upper front teeth. This can cause difficulty with chewing and speaking and can lead to jaw pain. Braces can be used to correct the alignment of the teeth and improve the bite, while Invisalign® clear aligners may be suitable for treating mild underbites. Severe underbites may require orthognathic surgery to reposition the jaws and achieve a harmonious bite relationship.
Crossbite
A crossbite occurs when the upper teeth sit inside the lower teeth, which can affect any group of teeth. This misalignment can cause tooth wear, gum disease, and jaw problems. Braces are effective in correcting crossbites by moving the teeth into proper alignment. A palatal expander may be used to widen the upper jaw and correct the crossbite. Invisalign® clear aligners can also treat mild crossbites, providing a discreet treatment option.
Open Bite
An open bite occurs when the upper and lower teeth do not meet when the mouth is closed, creating a gap. This can interfere with chewing and speaking. Braces can move the teeth into proper alignment, closing the gap and improving function. Invisalign® clear aligners can be used to treat mild to moderate open bites. For open bites caused by habits such as thumb sucking, behavior modification may be recommended in conjunction with orthodontic treatment to prevent recurrence.
Impacted Teeth
Impacted teeth are teeth that have not erupted properly into the mouth and remain partially or fully trapped in the jawbone. Wisdom teeth are commonly impacted, but other teeth can be affected as well. Braces can be used to create space and guide impacted teeth into their proper positions. In some cases, minor oral surgery may be needed to expose the impacted tooth, followed by orthodontic treatment to move it into place. Severely impacted teeth may need to be extracted if they cannot be guided into proper alignment.
Choosing the Right Treatment at Wentz Orthodontics
At Wentz Orthodontics, we understand that each patient’s needs are unique, and we provide personalized treatment plans to address specific orthodontic issues. Dr. Wentz and our experienced team use state-of-the-art orthodontic technology and advanced techniques to ensure the best possible outcomes for our patients.
If you or your child is experiencing any of these common orthodontic problems, request a consultation with Wentz Orthodontics in Lubbock, TX. Our team is here to provide comprehensive evaluations and develop customized treatment plans to help you achieve a healthy, beautiful smile.
