Interceptive Orthodontics

Orthodontics is the branch of dentistry that specializes in the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of dental and facial irregularities. The technical term for these problems is "malocclusion," which means bad bite.

The results of orthodontic treatment can be dramatic — beautiful smiles, improved dental health, and an enhanced quality of life for people of all ages. Orthodontic problems must be diagnosed before treatment begins. Proper diagnosis involves careful study of photographs, x-rays, and dental impressions.

Treatment typically lasts from six to 30 months, depending on age, and the severity of the orthodontic problem. Outstanding results are also highly dependent on maximum cooperation and coordination of care between you and our practice. We are committed to delivering the best possible service in order for you to achieve your orthodontic goals.

We are fortunate to have several qualified orthodontists available to us.  Click on the links below to read about each of them at their websites.

Classification Of Teeth

The classification of bites is broken up into three main categories: Class I, II, and III. This classification refers to the position of the first molars and how they bite together.

Class I: 

Class I is a normal relationship between the upper and lower teeth and jaws or balanced bite.

Class II:

Class II is where the lower first molar is posterior (or more towards the back of the mouth) than the upper first molar. In this abnormal relationship, the upper front teeth and jaw project further forward than the lower teeth and jaw. There is a convex appearance in profile with a receding chin and lower lip. Class II problems can be due to insufficient growth of the lower jaw, an over growth of the upper jaw, or a combination of the two. In many cases, Class II problems are genetically inherited, and can be aggravated by environmental factors such as digit sucking. Class II problems are treated via growth redirection to bring the upper and lower teeth and jaws into harmony.

Class: III:

Class III is where the lower first molar is anterior (or more towards the front of the mouth) than the upper first molar. In this abnormal relationship, the lower teeth and jaw project further forward than the upper teeth and jaw. There is a concave appearance in profile with a prominent chin. Class III problems are usually due to an overgrowth in the lower jaw, an undergrowth of the upper jaw, or a combination of the two. Like Class II problems, they can be genetically inherited.

Crossbite

One or more of the upper teeth biting on the inside of the lower teeth characterizes a crossbite. Crossbite can occur in the front and/or the sides of the mouth. Early correction of crossbites is recommended.

Crossbites should be corrected because they can:

• Cause premature wear of the teeth.
• Cause gum disease including bone loss.
• Cause asymmetrical development of the jaws.
• Cause dysfunctional chewing patterns.
• Make your smile less attractive.
• Be related to jaw joint dysfunction (TMJ).

Openbite

Inadequate vertical overlap of the front teeth characterizes an openbite. It is caused by oral habits such as tongue thrust, digit sucking, or jaws that don't grow evenly. Timing of treatment is critical to the overall success of the therapy.

Openbite should be corrected because it can:

• Cause premature wear of the back teeth.
• Cause dysfunctional chewing patterns.
• Make your smile less attractive.
• Be related of jaw joint dysfunction (TMJ).

Overbite

Overbite is a measure of the vertical overlap of the upper and lower front teeth. Excessive overbite may be caused by disproportionate eruption of front teeth or over development of the bone that supports the teeth. Excessive overbite is commonly seen in conjunction with a Class II relationship (see below). Overbite is also known as a deep bite.

Overbite should be corrected because it can:

• Cause improper functioning of your front teeth.
• Result in the lower front teeth biting into the gum tissue of the palate leading to periodontal problems.
• Cause unusual wear of the lower front teeth.
• Make your smile less attractive.

Overjet

Overjet is measure of the horizontal relationship of the upper and lower front teeth. It is often called buck teeth and is commonly confused with overbite. Excessive overjet may be caused by improper alignment of the molars (Class II relationship), a skeletal imbalance of the upper and lower jaw(s), flared upper incisors, missing lower teeth, crowded or tipped back lower teeth, or a combination of al. In addition, oral habits such as digit sucking or tongue thrusting can exacerbate the condition.

Overjet should be corrected because it can:

• Prevent proper functioning of the front teeth.
• Lead to premature wear.
• Make your smile less attractive.

Underbite

The lower teeth biting in front of the upper teeth characterizes an underbite. An underbite is usually caused by undergrowth of the upper jaw, overgrowth of the lower jaw, or a combination of the two (Class III relationship). Underbite can also be caused by tipped back upper incisors, flared lower incisors, missing upper teeth, or a combination of all.

Early correction of underbite is recommended because it can:

• Prevent proper functioning of the front and/or back teeth.
• Be related of jaw joint dysfunction (TMJ)
• Make your smile less attractive.