Common Orthodontic Issues
![crowding of the teeth before](https://www.hicks-mcmurphyortho.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/crowding-of-the-teeth-before.jpg)
![crowding of the teeth after](https://www.hicks-mcmurphyortho.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/crowding-of-the-teeth-after.jpg)
Crowding occurs when there’s not enough space in your mouth for your teeth to align correctly, leading to overlapping or misaligned teeth.
![open bite before](https://www.hicks-mcmurphyortho.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/openbite-before.jpg)
![open bite after](https://www.hicks-mcmurphyortho.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/openbite-after.jpg)
An open bite is characterized by a gap between the front teeth when the back teeth are in contact. This condition can affect biting and speech.
![deep overbite before](https://www.hicks-mcmurphyortho.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/deep-overbite-before.jpg)
![deep overbite after](https://www.hicks-mcmurphyortho.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/deep-overbite-after.jpg)
A deep overbite happens when the upper front teeth excessively cover the lower ones, potentially causing wear and jaw discomfort.
![missing lateral incisors before](https://www.hicks-mcmurphyortho.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/missing-lateral-incisors-before.jpg)
![missing lateral incisors after](https://www.hicks-mcmurphyortho.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/missing-lateral-incisors-after.jpg)
Missing lateral incisors can create gaps in your smile, impacting both aesthetics and function. Orthodontics can help address this issue.
![underbite before](https://www.hicks-mcmurphyortho.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/underbite-before.jpg)
![underbite after](https://www.hicks-mcmurphyortho.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/underbite-before.jpg)
An underbite occurs when the lower front teeth extend beyond the upper front teeth when biting down. It can affect facial harmony and function.
![spacing of teeth before](https://www.hicks-mcmurphyortho.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/spacing-of-teeth-before.jpg)
![spacing of teeth after](https://www.hicks-mcmurphyortho.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/spacing-of-teeth-after.jpg)
Spacing issues involve gaps between teeth, which can affect both appearance and the ability to chew properly.
![overjet before](https://www.hicks-mcmurphyortho.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/overbite-before-1.jpg)
![overjet after](https://www.hicks-mcmurphyortho.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/overbite-after-1.jpg)
Overjet refers to front teeth that protrude outward, potentially causing aesthetic concerns and increasing the risk of injury.
![non braces treatment before](https://www.hicks-mcmurphyortho.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/non-braces-treatment-before.jpg)
![non braces treatment after](https://www.hicks-mcmurphyortho.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/non-braces-treatment-after.jpg)
Some orthodontic issues can be addressed without braces, using alternative methods like clear aligners or removable appliances.
![phase 1 before](https://www.hicks-mcmurphyortho.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/phase-1-before.jpg)
![phase 1 after](https://www.hicks-mcmurphyortho.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/phase-1-after.jpg)
Phase-One treatment involves early orthodontic intervention, often for children, to address specific issues and create an ideal foundation for future orthodontic work.