Understanding alignment, bite, and growth concerns—early clarity leads to healthier outcomes.
Common Orthodontic Issues
Orthodontic concerns are more than cosmetic. The way teeth and jaws fit together affects long-term oral health, function, and confidence. At Pinecrest Orthodontics, care is focused on identifying problems early, guiding growth thoughtfully, and choosing the most effective treatment at the right time.
Led by Dr. Victoria Rothman, our practice treats a wide range of orthodontic concerns in children, teens, and adults. Each case is evaluated individually—because no two smiles (or growth patterns) are the same.
Below are some of the most common orthodontic issues we diagnose & treat.
Crowding
Crowding occurs when there isn’t enough space in the jaw to accommodate all of the teeth properly. This can cause
teeth to overlap, rotate, or erupt out of alignment.
Beyond appearance, crowding can:
- Make brushing and flossing more difficult
- Increase the risk of cavities and gum inflammation
- Lead to uneven wear on teeth over time
Early evaluation can help determine whether space guidance, expansion, or monitoring is appropriate.
Spacing
Spacing refers to gaps between teeth and can occur anywhere in the mouth. Spacing may result from:
- A mismatch between tooth size and jaw size
- Missing or undersized teeth
- Oral habits such as thumb-sucking or tongue thrusting
A common type of spacing is a diastema, a gap between the upper front teeth. This may be related to
an oversized labial frenum (the tissue connecting the upper lip to the gums).
Treatment decisions are based on function, facial balance, and long-term stability—not just closing space for
appearance alone.
Open Bite
An open bite occurs when the upper and lower teeth do not touch when the mouth is closed. This can interfere with
chewing, speech, and normal tooth function.
Open bites are often associated with habits such as:
- Thumb or finger sucking
- Tongue thrusting
- Chewing on non-food objects
Early intervention can help guide proper development and reduce the need for more complex treatment later.
Deep Bite
A deep bite occurs when the upper front teeth excessively overlap the lower front teeth vertically. In more severe
cases, this can lead to:
- Excessive wear on lower teeth
- Gum irritation or trauma
- Jaw discomfort
Deep bites are commonly related to genetics and jaw growth patterns and are carefully evaluated as part of
comprehensive treatment planning.
Overjet
Often mistaken for an overbite, an overjet refers to excessive horizontal overlap—when the upper
teeth sit too far forward relative to the lower teeth.
Overjet may be caused by:
- Jaw growth discrepancies
- Tooth positioning
- Childhood habits such as thumb-sucking
Correcting overjet can reduce the risk of dental trauma and improve bite balance and facial harmony.
Underbite
An underbite occurs when the lower jaw and teeth sit in front of the upper teeth. This condition is frequently
genetic and may affect:
- Chewing efficiency
- Speech
- Jaw comfort and facial balance
Underbites require careful growth assessment and long-term planning to achieve healthy, stable outcomes.
Hypodontia (Missing Teeth)
Hypodontia is a genetic condition in which one or more teeth fail to develop. The upper lateral incisors are among
the most commonly missing teeth.
This condition can affect:
- Smile aesthetics
- Spacing and alignment
- Long-term bite stability
Orthodontic planning often works in coordination with restorative care to create a balanced, natural-looking result.
Impacted Teeth
An impacted tooth is one that becomes trapped in the bone and does not erupt properly. Upper permanent canines are
among the most commonly impacted teeth.
Impaction may result from:
- Genetics
- Severe crowding
- Early loss of baby teeth without space maintenance
Orthodontic treatment can often guide impacted teeth into proper position when diagnosed at the right time.
The Importance of Early, Thoughtful Evaluation
Not every orthodontic concern requires immediate treatment—but every concern deserves expert evaluation. At Pinecrest Orthodontics, recommendations are based on:
- Growth patterns
- Functional needs
- Long-term oral health
- The most conservative approach that achieves lasting results
Sometimes treatment begins right away. Other times, careful monitoring is the best choice.
Experience the Pinecrest Orthodontics Difference
Orthodontic care is about more than straight teeth—it’s about guiding healthy development with precision, experience, and care.
If you notice any of these concerns in yourself or your child, we invite you to schedule a complimentary consultation. Families throughout Pinecrest, Palmetto Bay, Cutler Bay, Kendall, and South Miami trust our practice for clear guidance and consistent results.
📞 Call 305-423-4130 to schedule a complimentary consultation
📍 Conveniently located on South Dixie Highway in Pinecrest
Good vibes, great smiles—guaranteed.
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Give us a call to schedule your consultation with Pinecrest Orthodontics—your boutique specialty practice where good vibes and great smiles are guaranteed.
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