Common Bite Problems

When most people think about orthodontic treatment, they often focus on straightening crooked teeth. But how your teeth fit together (your bite) is just as important. If your bite is not aligned properly, it can cause problems with eating, speaking, and even the way your jaw functions. Below are some of the most common bite problems we see at Jay Harris Orthodontics.

An underbite occurs when the lower jaw extends out, causing the lower front teeth to sit in front of the upper front teeth. This can lead to jaw pain, speech difficulties, and changes to your mouth’s structure and appearance.

An overbite happens when the upper front teeth extend too far over the lower front teeth. A deep overbite can cause the lower teeth to bite into the roof of the mouth and can affect the way you chew and speak.

An open bite means that the upper and lower front teeth do not overlap when the mouth is closed, leaving a space between them. This makes it difficult to bite into foods, chew properly, or speak clearly. An open bite can also make it hard to close your lips completely around your teeth.

A crossbite occurs when some upper teeth sit inside the lower teeth when you bite down. This can lead to uneven wear on the teeth, stress on the jaw joints, pain in the head and cheeks, and even temporomandibular joint (TMJ) problems if left untreated.

Spacing problems happen when there are gaps between the teeth. This can be caused by missing teeth or teeth that are smaller than average. Spacing issues can affect speech and make some people feel self-conscious about their smile.

Crowded teeth occur when there is not enough room in the mouth for all the teeth to fit properly. This can make brushing and flossing more difficult, leading to trapped food, plaque buildup, and a higher risk of cavities and gum disease.

Mismatched dental midlines occur when the upper and lower teeth do not line up correctly. This can affect the way the jaws function and may lead to bite and alignment problems over time.

Fixing bite problems can improve your oral health and boost your confidence in your smile. If you think you or your child may have a bite problem, Dr. Harris and the entire team at Jay Harris Orthodontics is here to help.

Request an appointment today to find out how we can help you achieve a healthier, more comfortable bite and a smile you can feel good about.