Orthodontic problems usually originate with a misalignment of the teeth, or malocclusion. This can be the result of a number of factors, some of which are preventable and some of which are not. Orthodontic treatment with oral appliances or braces can be used to treat most malocclusions. Here are a few of the causes of orthodontic issues:

Shape of the Jaw
One common cause of malocclusion is being born with a jaw that is too small to allow the teeth to align properly. As a result, the teeth tend to become crowded, crooked, and overlapped. This can also cause the top and bottom rows of teeth to be misaligned with each other.

Childhood Habits
There are a number of habits common among children that can lead to orthodontic problems. While a child’s primary teeth may seem less important than their adult teeth because they are naturally lost early in life, the alignment of the primary teeth actually acts as a guide for the adult teeth. If a child is allowed to suck on a pacifier, thumb, or other object for too long, his or her primary teeth may become crooked and, as a result, the adult teeth will also be crooked. Losing primary teeth too early because of tooth decay can also lead to problems with the alignment of adult teeth.

Unusual Number of Teeth
Being born with extra or missing teeth can also lead to malocclusion and other orthodontic problems. When extra teeth are present, overlapping can occur due to inadequate space in the jaw. If a person is born with too few teeth, large gaps may form between the teeth.

Injury or Illness
Orthodontic problems can also be caused by damage within the mouth or jaw. Illnesses that cause tumors to grow in the mouth or jaw can lead to malocclusion. A fractured jaw that has been misaligned can also cause orthodontic problems.

Malocclusion and other orthodontic problems can lead to tooth decay. Dr. David Seligman of Seligman Orthodontics can treat orthodontic problems, providing patients with a healthy and beautiful smile. To learn more about our Park Avenue office, call us today at (888) 785-6413.