Orthodontic Dentistry

malocclusion is the dental term for teeth that don't fit together properly Orthodontics is the branch of Dentistry that corrects malocclusions the size of teeth and how they fit into a person's jaw are inherited traits some people are lucky and naturally have straight teeth others aren't so lucky habits such as thumb sucking can also put pressure on teeth and cause a malocclusion missing teeth can cause a bad bite to develop the teeth around a space will shift and this can throw off the entire bite there are many types of malocclusions the upper jaw may be too far out the lower jaw may be too far out both Jaws May protrude crowding may be a problem there may be too much space between the teeth or teeth may be in a crossbite a malocclusion that isn't corrected can really affect a person's profile and appearance it may also contribute to tooth decay bone destruction loss of teeth and jaw joint problems causing headaches difficulty in opening and closing clicking and popping and sore and painful jaw muscles correcting your bite through orthodontic treatment can improve your dental health the added bonus a boost in your self-confidence and a terrific looking smile