Anterior cross bites occur when the upper front teeth are inside of the lower front teeth. Over time, the lower jaw grows into a forward position abnormally, thus inhibiting the growth of the maxilla (roof of the mouth or upper jaw). Once the source of the interference causing the cross bite is eliminated, the appliance guides the maxilla back into position. The front of the appliance is moved outward through the tension of an expansion screw at the base of the unit while the back teeth are used for anchorage.

Class I - A malocclusion where the bite is okay and the top teeth line up with the bottom teeth, but the teeth are crooked, crowded or turned.

Class II - A malocclusion where the upper teeth stick out past the lower teeth commonly referred to as an "over bite," "over jet," "deep bite" or "buck teeth."

Anterior open bite refers to a condition in which the top and bottom front teeth are not in contact (they do not touch each other when the patient bites). The origins of open bites can be traced to habits that patients have or had in the past and occasionally to discrepancies between the sizes of the jaws. Since most open bites in children are associated to an existing habit, treatment usually addresses the habit itself and is most effective when done at an early age. Many appliances are available for treating this condition, and your dentist will discuss in detail the risks and benefits of treating an open bite in children.

When closing a diastema (gap between teeth), differing amounts of movement of the two teeth is often needed. In this application, coil springs are placed to the side of each tooth. An arch wire acts as a guide and keeps the teeth from tipping as the space is closed.

A posterior cross bite can appear at an early age; and depending on its cause (mal-positioned teeth or misaligned jaws,) treatment may be warranted early. It can involve one or both sides of the molar area and in some cases it can cause a "shift" of the bite. Many appliances are available for treating the condition. Your dentist will discuss in detail the risks and benefits of treating a posterior cross bite.

Canine teeth are also commonly referred to as cusped or "eye teeth" since the teeth align under your eyes. You should have two canines in both your upper and lower jaw. They are the strongest teeth you have, used for tearing into your most meaty meals. Because of this need for strength, your canines have the longest roots of all your teeth. They are an essential part of your bite and balanced smile for two main reasons:

• Your Bite
  Due to their length, the canines guide your other teeth together when chewing and biting. Canines are essential for maintaining a proper bite.
• Your Appearance
  Without canines, large gaps appear in your smile. This can lead to your other front teeth becoming twisted or crooked.

Your canine teeth are generally some of the last teeth to erupt. Occasionally they do not erupt. The two most common reasons are:

• Overcrowding in your mouth
  Extra teeth or a small jaw can cause the space where your canines are supposed to come in to be very small, resulting in impaction, or failure to erupt.
• Abnormal growths
  Tissue may have developed in your jaw that prevented your canines from reaching the surface.

The fact that teeth don't always come in like they're supposed to highlights the need for regular dental visits when young teeth are developing. If you suspect your child has impacted canines, don't hesitate to make an appointment with Dr. Weisz. With regular dental visits, x-rays and examinations, the problem of impacted canines can be found out early when treatment is easier. If you are an adult and your canines have not erupted Dr. Weisz can help. Set an appointment today for an x-ray and consultation. Your smile is up there waiting for you.

Treatment for Impacted Canines

After assessing your situation, Dr. Weisz will devise a plan to make room for your canines. Will a typical oral surgery and the assistance of an orthodontist your canine will find their way into their proper place over time.

An overjet is characterized by the protrusion of the upper front teeth. Commonly referred to as buck teeth, the condition is present when there is a prominent horizontal overlap.

This protrusion puts individuals at a higher risk for breakage and dental damage. Often, an overjet is mistakenly called an overbite. However, the two conditions are distinct.