subject: Problems Treated By Orthodontists [print this page] The typical mouth has 32 teeth (including wisdom teeth). That leaves a lot of room for imperfections. The reason a person would seek help from an orthodontist can vary from a slight overbite to severe crowding, but treatments are often very similar. Below, learn more about some of the most common dental issues that require braces or surgical solutions.
Crowded Teeth
Teeth can grow in unusual ways. In many cases, they tend to crowd together, either because they are being pushed in a certain direction by other teeth, or simply because of the contour of a person's mouth. Crowded teeth can be treated with braces, which apply steady pressure to push teeth in the right direction.
Spaced Teeth
Like crowding, spacing occurs naturally in many cases. However, rather than causing overlapping, a person's mouth structure can result in unsightly gaps between each tooth. The gaps typically can be closed with braces, retainers and other alignment treatments.
Open Bites
Open bites can occur naturally, or they can be the result of childhood thumb-sucking, among other factors. Over time, the teeth will move outward, preventing them from closing properly. This can result in a less-than-ideal smile, and it can impair a person's ability to chew or even talk. Braces are a common treatment for open bites. As a preventative measure, some dentists will recommend that patients have a special appliance known as a "crib" placed to help retrain the tongue so that it no longer presses against the back of a person's teeth. This can prevent further protrusions.
Overbites and Underbites
Both overbites and underbites can range in severity. They can be deep or shallow, and they can change over time. If overbites and underbites are noticed early enough, they can be treated simply enough with braces and other aligners. If the condition is too far along, a surgical option could be required to bring teeth back into correct alignment.
Protruding Teeth
Overbites can evolve into full-blown protruding teeth if left untreated. Protruding teeth can include a group of teeth, or it can involve just one or two. This can cause problems with eating and speaking, and may even damage a person's lips. Braces are typically the first option for treating protruding teeth. Occasionally, however, more serious steps should be taken, such as oral surgery to help the patient's jaw align properly.
In order to spot possible issues early on, be sure to visit your dentist or orthodontist regularly.
