Orthodontic problems
Orthodontic problems
Orthodontic problems are a result of congenital and environmental factors. Additional local factors, such as premature primary tooth loss, caries, ankylosis etc. can affect the progress of orthodontic problems. Orthodontic problems are divided in 3 categories:
- Dental: These problems are caused by discrepancies related to the number, size, shape, position of the teeth, while jaw size is harmonious.
- Skeletal: These problems are caused by discrepancies related to the size, shape and the relationship of the jaws in the three-dimensional space.
- Dentoskeletal: These are combined problems that can significantly affect facial esthetics and tooth function
The dental and skeletal problems manifest bilaterally or unilaterally, affect growth symmetry, muscular and lip posture.
Main Orthodontic Problems:
Horizontal plane
Class II
The upper jaw is forward and the lower jaw is backward. The facial profile is convex.
Increased over-jet
The upper teeth are protruded and proclined.
Class III
The upper jaw is backward and lower jaw is forward. The facial profile is concave.
Anterior cross-bite
The upper front teeth are behind the lower front teeth.
Vertical plane
Open bite
There is a gap between the upper and lower front teeth.
Deep bite
The lower front teeth are completely covered by the upper front teeth.
Space analysis
Crowding
Lack of space results in overlapping of the teeth.
Spacing
Smaller teeth comparing to the jaw size results in spacing between the teeth.
Transverse plane
Posterior cross-bite
The upper back teeth are inside and the lower back teeth are outside.
Telescopic occlusion
The lower back teeth are inside and the upper back teeth are outside.
Tooth location discrepancies
Impacted teeth
Dental heterotopia
Tooth number/size/shape discrepancies
Missing or supernumerary teeth
Undersized and oversized teeth
Craniofacial Problems / Clefts
Congenital and environmental factors affect unfavorably the physiological growth and development of the facial and the intraoral structures during pregnancy. There is a broad spectrum of syndromic or non-syndromic anomalies that manifest clefts of the upper lip, alveolar bone, hard and soft palate. Many orthodontic problems are present at these cases and interdisciplinary approach is necessary.