Common Bite Disorders That Indicate It Is Time To Visit The Orthodontist

At Kids Dental Group, we treat a number of common bite disorders, referred to as malocclusions. If your child suffers from any of the bite problems below, it may be time to schedule your Orthodontic consultation.

Underbite:

An underbite in a condition where the lower teeth and jaw protrude beyond the upper teeth. This causes the lower teeth to overlap the top teeth. For the most part, underbite is a hereditary condition. If you or somebody in your immediate family have an underbite, your child may develop one as well. Underbites can also be caused by thumb sucking or the long-term use of a baby bottle.

Upper Front Teeth Protrusion:

Protruding front teeth, otherwise known as buck teeth, occur when the teeth in the top jaw protrudes over the bottom lip. Like underbites, buck teeth are often caused by genetics. Habits such as thumb sucking and prolonged use of a pacifier can also be to blame.

Crowding:

Crowding occurs when the jaw cannot accommodate all of the teeth in the mouth. Teeth have insufficient room to grow out of the gum and may over lap or turn side-ways as a result. The cause of crowding may be as simple as the shape and size of the jaw. Alternatively, if your child uses a pacifier or sucks their thumb, this may lead to crowding.

Overbite:

Overbite is a condition where the upper teeth dramatically overlap the bottom teeth. When overbite is severe, it can be referred to as retrognathic or a deep bite. Sometimes overbites are hereditary, while others are caused by a malformed jaw.

Openbite:

Openbite occurs when the top and bottom teeth do not overlap. Even with the mouth closed, the top and bottom front teeth do not touch.  Open bites may be caused by common childhood habits such as thumb-sucking or tongue thrusting. Sometimes it is caused by genetic skeletal issues such as excessive development of the molars or jawbones.

Midlines:

It is obvious that dental midlines do not match when the top and bottom back teeth do not match up. Over time, this can lead to jaw pain and other dental issues. Usually, a distorted midline is caused by bad sucking habits and asymmetrical chewing habits.

Have you noticed any of these bite disorders in your child? Our orthodontists are experts in children’s bite disorders and will ensure that you and your child are extremely satisfied with treatment.

Contact us at our Markham, Richmond Hill or Stouffville location now!

Markham (905 294 0995) | Richmond Hill (905 709 3888) | Stouffville (905 642 3642)