Common Teeth Alignment Problems in Long Beach

Dental alignment issues are much more common than many people think. Both spacing issues and bite issues occur frequently. This short article explains the differences between the most common issues we see in our office. Orthodontics of Long Beach can successfully treat these issues using both traditional and modern orthodontic techniques.

What Are the Most Common Types of Teeth Alignment Problems?

The most common dental alignment problem is crowding, which occurs when your teeth do not have enough room in your jaw. Gap teeth can also be an issue and so can bite problems. Your bite is the way your upper and lower teeth meet (or do not meet). This is also called your occlusion, and if it is abnormal, it is known as a malocclusion.

What Are the Kinds of Spacing Problems My Teeth Can Have?

Your jaw can have two primary kinds of spacing problems, overcrowding and gapped teeth. The former is more common, but the latter occurs frequently as well.

Overcrowding

This happens for many reasons but is usually due to the size of your jaw versus the size and number of your teeth. It can lead to many issues, including impacted teeth, malocclusion, and a less-than-ideal appearance for your smile.

Gap Teeth/Spaced Teeth

Spaced teeth or gap teeth occur when you have too much room in your jaw versus the size of your teeth and a space (or gap) arises between the teeth. Sometimes gapped teeth are merely an aesthetic issue, but if the issue is severe, it can lead to serious oral health issues if not treated.

What Are the Kinds of Bite Problems My Teeth Can Hav

Malocclusions occur in several different forms. These are some of the most common.

Overbite

This type of malocclusion occurs when your upper teeth vertically overlap your lower teeth. It can happen if your lower jaw is too far back, your upper jaw juts out too far, or your front teeth are angled outward. This is also called a protrusion.

Underbite

This condition occurs when your lower front teeth protrude outward in front of the upper front teeth. It can happen when the upper jaw is too small, the lower jaw is too big, or both. Another name for this type of malocclusion is anterior crossbite.

Crossbite

A crossbite is when your upper teeth fit inside of your lower teeth. It can happen with the upper teeth or the lower teeth and is usually caused by your upper jaw being narrow or constricted. It can lead to crooked jaw development in children and can also cause chewing and biting issues.

Open Bite

When all of your teeth do not meet together, you have something called an open bite. Your front teeth may meet together but not your back teeth or vice versa. The cause can be due either to genetics or childhood habits such as thumb-sucking. Without correction, this malocclusion can lead to TMJ, chewing problems, or speech impairments. It can also lead to problems with the gums and bones around the back teeth.

Deep Bite

A deep bite is a type of malocclusion that occurs when your top teeth overlap your bottom teeth.

Can All Teeth Alignment Problems Be Treated?

Generally speaking, all dental alignment issues can be successfully treated given time and the right treatments. Some may require different types of treatment or longer treatment than others. The treatment options available vary depending on the nature of the issue. Invisalign® clear aligners are not an option for all malocclusion treatments, for example.

How Do I Get Started with Orthodontic Treatment in Long Beach?

The first step is to come into our Long Beach office for a new patient consultation. After you meet the doctor and staff, you will receive a thorough dental examination, complete with x-rays if necessary, and your doctor will then discuss your case and your treatment options.

Together, the two of you will create a customized treatment plan tailored to your orthodontic needs and your budget. You will have a chance to ask any questions and your provider will explain the process in depth. After you agree to the treatment plan, you can make an appointment to start your orthodontic treatment.

Will My Dental Insurance Cover Orthodontic Treatment for Myself or My Children?

It depends on your insurance plan. Most dental insurance plans provide at least some coverage for orthodontic treatment for children, but many of them do not cover adult treatment. When you come in for your new patient consultation, the staff will contact your insurance company and determine what it will and will not cover.

As part of your consultation, the staff will prepare and present to you a detailed financial statement that will explain what your orthodontic treatment will cost, how much your insurance company will pay, and how much you will have to pay out of your own pocket and when the charges will be due. You will never have to worry about surprise charges at Orthodontics of Long Beach!

How Can I Afford Orthodontic Treatment in Long Beach?

We understand how expensive orthodontic treatment is, particularly for our patients whose treatment is not covered or is only partially covered by insurance. That is why we are proud to offer a variety of financing options and payment arrangements to help you get the care that you need. Please ask our staff during your consultation for more information if you are interested in these options.

Do You Want to Get the Straight Smile You Have Always Wanted?

Orthodontics of Long Beach treats both children and adult patients in the Long Beach area in a modern, innovative office that offers the latest in orthodontic techniques. We offer both traditional metal braces and newer options such as Invisalign® clear aligners. You will also love our flexible appointment times and our warm and caring staff!

Call (562) 667-2973 and make an appointment for your new patient consultation with Orthodontics of Long Beach today!