Bite Problems

Upper Front Teeth Protrusion
The appearance and function of your teeth are impacted by this type of bite. It is characterized by the upper teeth extending too far forward or the lower teeth not extending far enough forward.



Overbite
The upper front teeth extend out over the lower front teeth, sometimes causing the lower front teeth to bite into the roof of the mouth.




Crossbite
The upper teeth sit inside the lower teeth, which may cause tooth stratification and misaligned jaw growth.




Openbite
Proper chewing is impacted by this type of bite, in which the upper and lower front teeth do not overlap. Openbite may cause a number of unwanted habits such as tongue thrusting.



Other Problems

Crowding
Crowding occurs when teeth have insufficient room to erupt from the gum. Crowding can often be corrected by expansion, and many times tooth removal can be avoided.



Spacing
Spacing problems may be caused by missing teeth, or they may only be a cosmetic or aesthetic issue.





Dental midlines not matched
This type of problem is caused when the back bite does not fit and match appropriately, which may negatively impact jaw and proper dental function.

Hard foods may do damage by bending wires, loosening cement under the bands, or breaking the little brackets and tubes which are attached to the bands, or your teeth.

DON'T EAT

Popcorn, Nuts, Peanut Brittle, Ice (not even if you're careful), Lemons (pure lemon juice is injurious to the tooth enamel), Corn-on-the-cob, Corn chips, Crisp tacos.

MAYBE

Carrot Sticks (if you cut them into carrot curls which are thin and will not damage), Apples (cut into small wedges), Hard French Bread (if you take small pieces and are very careful).

STICKY FOODS damage appliances by bending wires and pulling cement loose, so no caramels or taffy.

FOODS THAT ARE APPEALING BUT DANGEROUS TO YOUR APPLIANCES

FOODS HIGH IN SUGAR CONTENT avoid whenever possible. If you do eat any of them, eat only at the end of a meal and brush your teeth immediately. If it's not convenient to brush, then always rinse your mouth with clear water after eating very sweet foods like cake or pie.

A careful orthodontic patient can probably eat almost any food and do no damage to his appliance. However, these three types of food may cause trouble. There are many other foods which may cause trouble. To be safe, ask us if you are in doubt about eating them. So when in doubt remember,
NOTHING HARD, NOTHING STICKY, NOTHING VERY SWEET!