Detecting Bite Problems

An orthodontist reviews many factors when first making an orthodontic evaluation. Although treatment plans vary from patient to patient, depending on the position and size of the jaws and teeth, the following facts are noted during an evaluation.

Please take a few minutes to review the diagrams below. This is part of what Dr. Gladwell will be looking for when he examines your bite.

Upper Front Teeth Protrusion
The appearance and function of your teeth are impacted by this type of bite. It is characterized by the upper teeth extending too far forward or the lower teeth not extending far enough forward.

Overbite
The upper front teeth extend out over the lower front teeth, sometimes causing the lower front teeth to bite into the roof of the mouth.

Crossbite
The upper teeth sit inside the lower teeth, which may cause tooth stratification and misaligned jaw growth.

Openbite
Proper chewing is impacted by this type of bite, in which the upper and lower front teeth do not overlap. Openbite may cause a number of unwanted habits, such as tongue thrusting.

Other Problems

Crowding
Crowding occurs when teeth have insufficient room to erupt from the gum. Crowding can often be corrected by expansion, and many times tooth removal can be avoided.

Spacing
Spacing problems may be caused by missing teeth, or they may only be acosmetic or aesthetic issue.

Dental midlines not matched
This type of problem is caused when the back bite does not fit and match appropriately, which may negatively impact jaw and proper dental function.