Common Orthodontic Issues – Huntington, NY

Understanding the Need for Orthodontics

A young girl wearing purple glasses and metal braces smiling after seeing her orthodontist in Huntington

Unsure if the problem you’re experiencing warrants a visit to see an orthodontist? The best way to find out is to simply schedule an appointment! At Huntington Orthodontics, our team of professionals knows it isn’t always easy to tell if you’re in need of braces. Oftentimes, problems can present themselves in ways that might seem “normal” but in actuality can lead to serious issues developing over time if left untreated. At our office, we can evaluate your oral and facial structures to determine if orthodontic treatment is necessary, so if you or your child need the help of a qualified “orthodontist near me,” call our office today to schedule an appointment!

Some of the most common orthodontic issues that require braces include:

Crowded Teeth

When teeth do not have enough space between them, this can lead to an increased risk for tooth decay, gum disease, and cavity formation. Teeth need adequate spacing in order for you to effectively clean between. Brushing and flossing may prove difficult when crowded teeth are present.

Spaces Between Teeth

A person’s mouth that is open and exposing their teeth, which have a large gap between the upper front two teeth

If too much space exists between your teeth, this, too, can pose the same dental problems. Food and bacteria can become easily trapped, resulting in plaque burrowing into the tooth enamel and breaking it down. Not to mention, your aesthetics will likely keep you from planning any social gatherings, so braces are a great way to not only improve your oral health but eliminate the gaps and enjoy a more beautiful smile.

Overbite

When your top row of teeth protrudes out further than your bottom row of teeth, this can not only pose a problem for your overall aesthetic, but it can negatively impact your teeth and bite. When you close your mouth, you will begin to notice over time that your lower arch bites into the roof of your mouth and your teeth become worn down.

Underbite

The opposite of an overbite is an underbite, in which the lower teeth stick out further than the top row of teeth. This typically occurs when your lower jaw grows out farther than the upper jaw and can lead to excessive wear and tear on your teeth as well as chronic jaw problems.

Open Bite

Teeth not coming together when you close your mouth? This is called an open bite. When the back teeth clench together, you will notice that your front teeth do not touch. What can cause this type of problem? Excessive thumb-sucking as a child, which can negatively affect your speech and ability to chew effectively.

Crossbite

If you notice that some of your upper teeth sit behind your lower teeth, you have what is called a crossbite. Not only will you likely experience problems with your jaw, but its ability to function normally will become an issue over time.

Impacted Canines

Digital image of canine teeth that are not fully developed and partially impacted

Worried that your child’s canine teeth aren’t coming in as they should? Are their baby teeth remaining in place? It could be that these adult teeth are impacted and will require orthodontic treatment to fix.