Common Orthodontic Problems or Malocclusion
We understand that orthodontic problems can affect anyone—children, teens, and adults alike. In fact, very few people are born with naturally perfect teeth. Misaligned bites, or malocclusion, can impact everything from your appearance to how you chew, speak, and clean your teeth.
Whether caused by genetics, thumb sucking, dental trauma, poor oral hygiene, or developmental conditions, identifying the issue is the first step toward a healthier, more functional smile. Fortunately, Dr. Robert Marshall offers personalized orthodontic solutions that correct bite problems and help you achieve long-term dental health.
Why Correcting a Bad Bite Matters
A misaligned bite can lead to:
Difficulty chewing or speaking
Increased risk of tooth decay or gum disease
Jaw pain or TMJ issues
Aesthetic concerns affecting confidence
The sooner these problems are diagnosed, the easier they are to correct—especially in growing children. Below are some of the most common orthodontic issues we treat.
Upper Front Teeth Protrusion
This condition occurs when the upper front teeth stick out too far forward or the lower jaw doesn’t extend enough. It can affect both the look and function of your bite, increasing the risk of trauma to the upper teeth.
Overbite
In an overbite, the upper teeth extend too far over the lower teeth, sometimes causing the lower front teeth to contact the roof of the mouth. This can lead to wear on the teeth or discomfort while biting and chewing.
Crossbite
A crossbite happens when the upper teeth sit inside the lower teeth rather than outside. This misalignment may lead to uneven jaw growth, tooth wear, or facial asymmetry if not addressed early.
Open Bite
When the upper and lower front teeth don’t overlap, it becomes difficult to bite or chew properly. An open bite is often linked to habits like thumb sucking or tongue thrusting and may cause speech issues or oral discomfort.
Crowding
Crowding occurs when there isn’t enough space in the mouth for all teeth to emerge properly. This can lead to overlapping or rotated teeth. Expansion or orthodontic treatment can often fix this without needing extractions.
Spacing
Spaces between teeth may result from missing teeth, small teeth, or habits like tongue thrusting. While sometimes cosmetic, spacing can also affect oral function and bite alignment.
Underbite
An underbite occurs when the lower jaw juts forward, causing the lower front teeth to sit in front of the upper teeth. This may contribute to jaw stress, difficulty chewing, or excessive tooth wear over time.