Common Orthodontic Problems or Malocclusion
Orthodontic concerns are more common than many people realize. In fact, most smiles don’t develop perfectly on their own. Issues with alignment or bite, often called malocclusion, or a “bad bite”, can affect how you chew, speak, clean your teeth, and even how confident you feel about your smile.
These concerns can develop for many reasons. Some are inherited, while others are influenced by habits like thumb sucking, dental disease, poor oral hygiene, injuries, birth differences, or certain medical conditions. No matter the cause, orthodontic problems are not a reflection of effort or care, and they are often very treatable.
At Cedar Smiles Orthodontics, Dr. Rola Alkhatib believes that understanding your orthodontic needs is the first step toward improving them. That’s why she takes time to explain what’s happening with your bite or alignment and how treatment can help, whether care is needed now or later.
Orthodontic treatment guided by Dr. Rola is designed to improve both how your teeth function and how your smile looks. The goal isn’t just straighter teeth, but a healthier, more balanced bite that supports long-term comfort and confidence.
Below are some of the most common orthodontic concerns we see in children, teens, and adults.
Upper Front Teeth Protrusion
This bite affects both appearance and function and occurs when the upper front teeth extend too far forward, or the lower jaw sits too far back. Protruding teeth are more vulnerable to injury and may make it harder to close the lips comfortably. It can also impact speech and overall bite balance if left untreated.
Overbite
An overbite occurs when the upper front teeth excessively overlap the lower front teeth. In more severe cases, the lower teeth may contact the roof of the mouth, leading to discomfort or tissue irritation. Over time, this can contribute to uneven tooth wear and jaw strain.
Crossbite
A crossbite happens when one or more upper teeth bite inside the lower teeth instead of outside. This misalignment can interfere with normal jaw growth and cause the bite to shift unevenly. Left untreated, it may lead to tooth wear, gum issues, or facial asymmetry.
Openbite
An open bite is present when the upper and lower front teeth do not touch when the mouth is closed. This can make biting and chewing certain foods difficult or inefficient. Open bites are often associated with habits such as tongue thrusting or prolonged thumb sucking.
Crowding
Crowding occurs when there is not enough space in the jaw for all teeth to erupt properly. Teeth may overlap, rotate, or become trapped beneath the gums as a result. In many cases, crowding can be addressed by creating space rather than removing teeth.
Spacing
Spacing refers to gaps between teeth that may develop due to missing teeth or differences in tooth and jaw size. While spacing is sometimes cosmetic, it can also affect how teeth function together. Gaps may allow teeth to shift over time if not properly managed.
Underbite
An underbite occurs when the lower jaw extends forward, causing the lower front teeth to sit in front of the upper front teeth. This alignment can interfere with normal chewing and speech patterns. In more pronounced cases, it may also affect facial balance and jaw comfort.