A teenage boy wearing a navy blue baseball cap, black glasses, and braces smiles confidently in a modern orthodontic office, showing off his new smile after orthodontic treatment at Marks Orthodontics.

Common Orthodontic Issues Braces and Aligners Can Fix

Author: Kathryn Marks
Struggling with crowded teeth, gaps, or bite issues? Braces and aligners can help! Get expert care at Marks Orthodontics and start your journey to a confident smile today.

Orthodontic Solutions for a Healthier, More Confident Smile

A great smile is more than just a cosmetic asset—it plays a crucial role in overall health, confidence, and daily function. Many people struggle with orthodontic issues that affect their ability to chew, speak, or even maintain good oral hygiene. Fortunately, modern orthodontic treatments provide solutions that are both effective and discreet. 

At Marks Orthodontics, we specialize in braces and clear aligners, offering personalized treatments to help patients achieve their ideal smiles. Whether addressing minor misalignments or complex bite issues, orthodontic care is an investment in lifelong dental health.

Read more: Benefits of Orthodontic Treatment for Your Smile and Oral Health

Common Orthodontic Issues Braces and Aligners Can Fix

Crowded Teeth

Crowded teeth are one of the most common orthodontic concerns. When teeth lack the proper space to align naturally, they may overlap, twist, or become difficult to clean. This increases the risk of cavities, gum disease, and plaque buildup.

Braces are highly effective in gradually moving teeth into their correct positions, ensuring optimal spacing for improved oral hygiene and long-term health. For patients who prefer a more discreet option, clear aligners provide a nearly invisible way to correct crowding without metal brackets. Both options are customized to create space in the mouth while preserving the integrity of each tooth’s structure.

With expert guidance and a personalized treatment plan, achieving a well-aligned smile is within reach. Starting with a complimentary initial consultation, we evaluate each case and recommend the best course of action for lasting results.

Read more: Your First Orthodontic Consultation: What to Expect & How to Prepare

Gaps Between Teeth

Gaps between teeth, or diastema, can be caused by genetics, improper swallowing habits, or missing teeth. While some people embrace the uniqueness of a gap-toothed smile, others seek treatment to enhance aesthetics and prevent potential oral health issues.

Both braces and clear aligners can be used to close gaps by gently guiding teeth together over time. Closing these spaces improves not only appearance but also functionality—reducing food traps and lowering the risk of gum inflammation. Orthodontic treatment creates a harmonious alignment that supports long-term dental stability while enhancing confidence in every smile.

Read more: Metal Braces vs. Clear Aligners: Which Option Is Right for You?

Overbite

An overbite occurs when the upper front teeth significantly overlap the lower front teeth. While a slight overbite is natural, excessive overlap can lead to issues such as premature tooth wear, jaw discomfort, and speech difficulties.

Braces effectively reposition teeth and adjust the bite, ensuring balanced pressure distribution and improved function. For patients seeking a more subtle approach, clear aligners provide an excellent alternative, gently shifting teeth while remaining virtually invisible. By addressing an overbite early, long-term complications such as enamel erosion and jaw misalignment can be minimized, leading to a healthier and more balanced bite.

Underbite

An underbite occurs when the lower teeth extend past the upper teeth, often resulting in difficulty chewing, speaking, and even breathing. This condition can place excessive strain on the jaw, leading to discomfort and potential joint issues over time.

Using customized orthodontic treatments, braces gradually reposition the teeth and guide the jaw into a healthier alignment. In some cases, additional orthodontic appliances may be recommended to assist in correcting severe underbites. With early intervention, underbite correction improves not just dental aesthetics but also long-term oral function and comfort.

Crossbite

A crossbite occurs when some upper teeth sit inside the lower teeth rather than properly overlapping. This misalignment can cause excessive wear on certain teeth, gum recession, and even jaw pain due to uneven pressure distribution.

Braces and clear aligners are both effective in gradually shifting teeth into proper alignment, ensuring a balanced bite that promotes even wear and improved function. Left untreated, a crossbite can contribute to jaw asymmetry and discomfort, making early orthodontic intervention essential for long-term oral health.

Open Bite

An open bite occurs when the upper and lower teeth do not meet when the mouth is closed. This can make chewing less efficient and impact speech clarity. Common causes include thumb-sucking habits in childhood, tongue thrusting, and genetics.

Using braces or clear aligners, we gently guide the teeth into their proper positions, eliminating the open space between the upper and lower rows. Correcting an open bite not only enhances the smile’s appearance but also improves daily function, making eating and speaking more comfortable.

Why Choose Marks Orthodontics for Treatment?

At Marks Orthodontics, every patient receives a personalized approach to treatment, ensuring that each orthodontic issue is addressed with precision and care. Whether using braces or clear aligners, we develop customized solutions tailored to individual needs.

  • State-of-the-Art Technology: Our advanced digital imaging and treatment planning ensure precise and efficient orthodontic care.
  • Flexible Financing Options: With various payment plans available, achieving a healthier smile is accessible for all budgets.
  • Patient-Centered Approach: Our team prioritizes comfort and satisfaction, making each visit a positive experience.

For those considering orthodontic treatment, scheduling a consultation is the first step toward a healthier, more confident smile. Our team is ready to guide patients through their options and provide expert recommendations for the best possible results.

Transforming Smiles with Expert Orthodontic Care

Orthodontic issues affect not just appearance but also overall oral health and function. Whether dealing with crowded teeth, gaps, bite misalignments, or other concerns, braces and clear aligners offer highly effective solutions. At Marks Orthodontics, we are committed to providing high-quality care, ensuring that every patient achieves a smile that is both beautiful and functional.

Ready to take the first step? Contact us today to learn more about our treatment options and schedule a consultation to begin your journey to a confident, healthy smile.

Related Questions

How long does orthodontic treatment with braces or aligners take?
Treatment duration varies based on the complexity of the case, but most patients complete their orthodontic journey in 12 to 24 months.

Are clear aligners as effective as braces?
For mild to moderate misalignment, clear aligners provide highly effective results. However, severe cases may require braces for optimal correction.

Do braces or aligners cause pain?
Some mild discomfort is normal as teeth shift into alignment, but this usually subsides within a few days. We provide guidance on managing any temporary soreness.

What is the best age to start orthodontic treatment?Early intervention can be beneficial, but orthodontic treatment is effective at any age. A consultation helps determine the best timing for each individual case.