MISALIGNED TEETH

Misaligned teeth are a common dental concern that can affect both the function and appearance of your smile. Crooked or improperly positioned teeth may make it harder to chew, speak clearly, and maintain good oral hygiene. If left untreated, misalignment can also lead to issues such as jaw pain, uneven wear on teeth, or gum disease. At South Walker Dental, we offer personalized treatment options to help straighten your teeth and improve your overall oral health.

There are several types of misalignment, each affecting the way your teeth and jaws fit together:

Overbite

When the upper front teeth significantly overlap the lower front teeth. This can cause wear on the lower teeth and sometimes lead to jaw discomfort.

Underbite

Occurs when the lower front teeth extend past the upper front teeth. This can affect chewing and place extra stress on the jaw.

Crossbite

A condition where some of the upper teeth sit inside the lower teeth instead of outside. Crossbites can cause uneven tooth wear and gum issues.

Open Bite

When the upper and lower front teeth do not touch when the mouth is closed, leaving a gap. This can interfere with proper chewing and speech.

Crowded Teeth

When there isn’t enough space in the jaw for teeth to align properly, causing them to overlap or twist. Crowding can make cleaning difficult and increase the risk of decay.

Gapped Teeth

Spaces between teeth that may result from missing teeth, smaller-than-average teeth, or natural spacing. Gaps can affect both appearance and bite function.

Together, these conditions are collectively known as malocclusion, and they can range from mild to more complex cases.

At South Walker Dental, we carefully assess your bite and alignment needs before recommending treatment. Common options include:

Orthodontic Solutions

Clear aligners or braces to gradually move teeth into proper alignment.

Cosmetic Options

Veneers or bonding to improve the appearance of slightly crooked or gapped teeth.

Restorative Treatments

In cases of bite-related wear, restorative work may be needed alongside alignment treatments.

Our goal is to create a balanced bite, a healthier mouth, and a smile you can feel confident about.

Correcting misaligned teeth is about more than appearance, and it can improve chewing, speech, and long-term oral health. Early treatment often prevents more serious dental issues from developing down the road.