Common Orthodontic Problems We Treat

Orthodontic treatment corrects how teeth and jaws fit together. The most common problems we treat are crowding, spacing, overbite, underbite, crossbite, and open bite. Left uncorrected, these can affect chewing, speech, and long-term oral health, all of which braces or aligners can improve.

An aligned bite is about far more than looks. When teeth and jaws fit together properly, they are easier to clean, more comfortable to use, and less prone to wear and injury over time. Below are the bite problems we see most often at Sugar Creek Orthodontics, and how orthodontic treatment corrects them.

Protrusion Sugar Creek Orthodontics in Normal and Lincoln, IL

Upper Front Teeth Protrusion

This occurs when the upper front teeth extend too far forward, or the lower teeth don’t extend far enough. It can affect both the function and appearance of the smile.

Overbite Sugar Creek Orthodontics in Normal and Lincoln, IL

Overbite

An overbite is when the upper front teeth extend too far over the lower teeth. A deep overbite can wear down teeth and, in some cases, cause jaw discomfort. Orthodontic treatment repositions the teeth and, in growing children, can guide the jaw.

Crossbite Sugar Creek Orthodontics in Normal and Lincoln, IL

Crossbite

A crossbite is when some upper teeth sit inside the lower teeth rather than outside. It can cause uneven wear and, in children, affect jaw growth if left untreated. Early treatment is often especially effective for crossbites.

Open bite Sugar Creek Orthodontics in Normal and Lincoln, IL

Open Bite

An open bite is when the upper and lower front teeth do not touch when the back teeth are closed. It can affect biting and speech and is sometimes linked to habits like thumb sucking. Orthodontic treatment closes the bite for better function.

Underbite Sugar Creek Orthodontics in Normal and Lincoln, IL

Underbite

An underbite is when the lower teeth sit in front of the upper teeth. It can make chewing and speaking harder and place uneven stress on the jaw. Treating an underbite early, while a child is still growing, often gives the best results, which is one reason we recommend a first visit by age 7.

Crowding Sugar Creek Orthodontics in Normal and Lincoln, IL

Crowding

Crowding happens when there is not enough room in the jaw for all the teeth, causing them to overlap or twist. Beyond appearance, crowded teeth are harder to brush and floss, which raises the risk of cavities and gum problems. Braces or, for adults, clear aligners create room and bring teeth into alignment.

Spacing Sugar Creek Orthodontics in Normal and Lincoln, IL

Spacing

Gaps between teeth can result from missing teeth, a mismatch between tooth and jaw size, or habits. Closing spaces improves both the look of your smile and how your bite functions. Braces and clear aligners are both effective, depending on the case.

The Good News: These Are All Treatable

Whatever your bite concern, the first step is the same: a free consultation. Dr. Ulrich will examine your teeth and bite, explain what she sees in plain language, and recommend the most effective treatment for your smile.

Schedule Your Free Consultation

Call our Bloomington-Normal office at (309) 452-7445 or our Lincoln office at (217) 732-1073, or request an appointment online. No referral needed.

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