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Common Orthodontic Issues Treated by an Orthodontist in Katy, TX

Orthodontists & Cosmetic & Family Dentistry located in Katy, TX

Orthodontic care goes far beyond just straightening teeth. From bite correction to jaw alignment, an experienced orthodontist in Katy, TX, plays a key role in improving oral function, aesthetics, and long-term dental health. Whether you’re a teen considering braces or an adult exploring clear aligners, understanding common orthodontic problems can help you make informed decisions about your treatment.

At Portal Family Dentistry & Orthodontics, we offer a wide range of solutions designed to correct both minor and complex issues. Below, we’ll explore the most common conditions treated by our orthodontic team and how you can start your journey toward a better smile.

1. Crowded or Crooked Teeth

One of the most frequently treated conditions is dental crowding. When teeth don’t have enough space to grow properly, they can overlap or twist, making it harder to clean and increasing the risk of decay and gum disease.

Treatment options include traditional braces and clear aligners like Invisalign, which apply controlled pressure to shift teeth into their ideal positions over time. Our orthodontic treatments page outlines these solutions in detail.

2. Overbite and Underbite

Bite problems, also known as malocclusions, can cause long-term damage if left untreated. An overbite happens when the upper front teeth excessively overlap the lower teeth, while an underbite occurs when the lower teeth sit in front of the upper teeth.

Both conditions can be addressed by an experienced orthodontist using braces, appliances, or, in severe cases, surgical orthodontics. For a closer look at how this is handled in real cases, read our deep dive into overbite correction with Dr. Gustavo Salas.

3. Open Bite

In an open bite, the front teeth don’t touch when the mouth is closed, creating space that affects both appearance and speech. This condition can result from habits like thumb-sucking or abnormal jaw development.

Our team at Portal Family Dentistry offers personalized treatment plans to correct open bites using braces, aligners, and specialized orthodontic appliances depending on the patient’s age and the severity of the issue.

4. Crossbite

A crossbite occurs when some upper teeth sit inside the lower teeth instead of outside. This misalignment can affect one tooth or multiple teeth and often leads to uneven tooth wear, jaw pain, and gum issues.

Our orthodontic services in Katy, TX include advanced techniques to correct crossbites early, especially in growing children, but adults can also benefit from treatment.

Adult Orthodontic Concerns

It’s never too late to improve your smile. More adults today are choosing orthodontic treatment than ever before, thanks to discreet and effective options like clear aligners. If you’re in your 30s, 40s, or beyond and wondering whether it’s worth starting treatment, our blog on getting braces in your 30s provides excellent insight.

FAQs: Orthodontic Treatments

Orthodontic treatment helps correct issues like crooked teeth, bite problems, jaw misalignment, and spacing concerns. These issues can impact not only your appearance but also your ability to chew, speak, and maintain oral hygiene. Seeing an orthodontist can improve both your dental health and confidence by guiding your teeth into proper alignment.
Common signs of an overbite include upper front teeth that significantly overlap the lower front teeth. An underbite is noticeable when the lower teeth extend beyond the upper ones. If you experience jaw discomfort, uneven wear on teeth, or speech difficulties, it’s best to consult an orthodontist in Katy, TX, for a professional evaluation.
The length of orthodontic treatment depends on the severity of the issue being corrected, the type of treatment used, and the patient’s age and compliance. On average, most treatments (whether with braces or clear aligners) last between 12 to 24 months. More complex cases, such as those involving jaw misalignment or surgical orthodontics, may take longer. As a trusted orthodontist in Katy, TX, will create a personalized treatment plan and timeline based on your unique needs. Regular check-ups and good oral hygiene can help keep treatment on track.

Not all bite problems require surgery, but in certain complex cases – such as severe overbites, underbites, or jaw misalignment – surgical orthodontics may be the most effective solution. This type of treatment involves collaboration between an orthodontist and an oral surgeon to correct jaw position and ensure proper function. Your orthodontist will conduct a comprehensive evaluation using digital imaging and bite analysis to determine whether surgery is necessary or if braces or aligners alone can achieve the desired results.

Beginning your orthodontic journey is simple. Start by visiting our orthodontic treatments page to explore the range of services we offer. From there, contact our office to schedule an initial consultation, where our team will assess your needs, discuss your goals, and create a personalized treatment plan. Whether you need braces, Invisalign, or a more advanced solution, our team is here to guide you every step of the way.

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