The percentage of population accessing dental services in Surrey ranges between 15-30% every year. With an overall population of over 1.2 million people, it is a matter of concern for the people of Surrey. Evidently, people take their dental health for granted, which leads to further oral health ailments. For instance, teeth alignment is a common dental problem in the county, which often worsens into severe oral conditions that could require surgery.

It’s no secret that straight teeth boost your confidence, as well as lead to better oral health. Unfortunately, many people experience common teeth alignment issues they are unaware of. If you live in Surrey, you will find several reputed orthodontists who can assess your oral health and suggest the best treatment.

Fortunately, all common teeth alignment issues are treatable with assistance from a reliable orthodontist Surrey. But first things first, it is essential to get acquainted with these teeth alignment issues before you go hunting for a proficient orthodontist.

Overbite

An overbite is when the upper teeth bite over the lower teeth. It can be caused by genetics, bad habits like thumb-sucking, or injury. Crossbites are the most common type of overbite. There are different types of overbites, including open bite, deep bite, and edge to edge.

When to see an orthodontist:

• Difficulty chewing and biting food
• Jaw pain
• Headaches
• Earache

If you think you are developing an overbite, you must consult an orthodontistto diagnose your problem and create a customised treatment plan to correct it.

Crossbite

The upper teeth bite inside the lower teeth, called a crossbite. It occurs on both the front and back teeth and causes jaw misalignment. If left untreated, it can also lead to gum disease, tooth decay, and even bone loss.

Crossbites are most commonly treated with orthodontic braces or clear aligners. In some cases, a palatal expander may also be used to correct the issue.

When to see an orthodontist:

• An uneven bite
• Difficulty chewing
• Tooth wear
• Jaw pain or TMJ (Temporomandibular Disorders)

Crossbites can further lead to severe alignment issues; that’s why it is essential to seek an orthodontist’s attention when you start witnessing any of these signs before the situation worsens.

Underbite

An underbite is a common teeth alignment issue that several reasons can cause. Genetics is one of the most commonly known causes of an underbite, but habits like thumb-sucking can also cause it. In this, your lower jaw will protrude over the upper jaw. An injury can also cause an underbite to the jaw. If you have an underbite, you may need to see an orthodontist get it corrected.

When to visit an orthodontist:

• Difficulty chewing or biting food
• Pain in the jaw
• Difficulty speaking
• Teeth that are more prone to wear and tear

Knowing the underlying reasons behind underbite is extremely important for an orthodontist in Surrey to suggest the ideal treatment plan. With a whopping 12 dentists per individual in the county, it is easy to find a good orthodontist and get a complete diagnosis at the earliest.

Deep Bite

A deep bite is when your upper teeth overlap your lower teeth too much, and it can cause gum problems and tooth wear. It is a type of overbite that can lead to further issues if not treated immediately. An orthodontist can help fix a deep bite with braces or other orthodontic treatment.

When to see an orthodontist:

• Gum problems
• Tooth wear
• TMJ problems

You must visit an orthodontist when you start realising your teeth are overlapping. They can assess the situation and recommend the best course of treatment. Treatment for a deep bite may include orthodontic appliances such as braces or expanders.

The Bottom Line

Several common teeth alignment issues can impact your smile. You must be acquainted with all the common problems to know what to look for and how to find the best orthodontic treatment available. NHS England has been ensuring that every person in Surrey gets access to dental services, even the rural areas like South Surrey. By consulting an orthodontist in the county, you can ensure proper and accurate treatment required to achieve that beautiful and healthy smile you deserve.