Orthodontics at Penn Dental Medicine

Among the most common conditions orthodontics treats are “bad” bites (or malocclusions). You may wonder, what is an underbite, crossbite, or overbite? They are the names that describe these improper bite symptoms:

• Underbites: An underbite is an improper bite characterized by the lower teeth protruding beyond the upper front teeth. This misalignment can create difficulties in chewing and speaking and may lead to jaw pain.

• Crossbites: A crossbite happens when the upper teeth fall inside the lower teeth when biting down. This can affect the smile’s aesthetic appearance and may result in uneven teeth wear. Crossbites can be classified as anterior (involving front teeth) or posterior (involving back teeth).

• Overbites: An overbite is when the upper front teeth significantly overlap the lower front teeth. If left untreated, this condition can lead to wear on the teeth, gum disease, and jaw pain.

Spacing issues treated by orthodontics include:

• Crowding: Crowding occurs when there is insufficient space in the jaw for all the teeth to fit properly. This misalignment can lead to overlapping teeth, making them hard to clean and increasing the risk of decay and gum disease.

• Gaps: Gaps can occur between the teeth, often due to missing or smaller-than-average teeth.

• Open Bite: An open bite occurs when there is space between the upper and lower teeth when the mouth is closed, often caused by thumb sucking or tongue thrusting. This condition can hinder proper chewing and speaking.

Orthodontics can also treat jaw issues:

• Jaw Discrepancies: Some patients experience issues with jaw alignment, which can include overgrowth or undergrowth of the jaw. These discrepancies can cause difficulties in biting and chewing, as well as aesthetic concerns.
• TMJ (Temporomandibular Joint) Disorders: Orthodontics plays a crucial role in treating TMJ disorders, which can cause pain and dysfunction in the jaw by placing undue stress on the jaw joints and surrounding muscles.

PDM offers a variety of procedures and appliances designed to improve the alignment of teeth and jaws, correct bite issues, and enhance overall dental aesthetics.

• Traditional Metal Braces: Traditional braces consist of wires and metal brackets bonded to the teeth. The orthodontist adjusts the wires periodically to shift the teeth into the desired position gradually. This is one of the most common and effective methods for treating many orthodontic issues.

• Ceramic Braces: Similar to traditional braces, ceramic braces use tooth-colored materials to blend in with the natural color of teeth. They are less noticeable but may be more brittle and require more care during treatment.

• Clear Aligners (e.g., Invisalign): Clear aligners are a series of custom-made, removable trays that gradually shift teeth into place. They are popular for their aesthetic appeal and convenience, allowing for easier oral hygiene and the freedom to eat and drink without restrictions.

• Retainers: After the initial orthodontic treatment, retainers are often used to maintain the new position of the teeth. They can be fixed or removable and are essential to prevent the teeth from shifting back to their original positions.

• Palatal Expanders: These devices are typically used in younger patients to widen the upper jaw and create more space for the teeth. They consist of a few metal bands that are attached to the molar teeth and a screw in the middle, which is adjusted periodically.

• Headgear: Headgear is an external appliance used to correct bite and jaw alignment issues, often in growing children. It is worn outside the mouth and connects to the braces inside the mouth, applying gentle pressure to guide the teeth.
• Surgical Orthodontics: For more severe cases of jaw misalignment, surgical options may be necessary. Surgery can realign the jaw and is often combined with orthodontic treatment to ensure optimal results.

At PDM, all of our services are provided by predoctoral students or postdoctoral residents in our program. All treatment is overseen by faculty from our school every step of the way, ensuring the highest quality service for our patients.

Orthodontic treatment takes place throughout multiple visits. The exact number of appointments will depend upon your particular needs. PDM will walk you through each step of the process, from start to finish. We use only the highest quality materials and research-based methods to ensure the quality of your care.

Many orthodontic treatments are covered by insurance, but you should check with your insurance company to find out the details of your plan and what’s covered. PDM accepts direct payments from most dental insurance plans, including Penn Dental insurance plans for employees of the University of Pennsylvania and their beneficiaries.

We also accept all Medicaid plans offered to residents of Southeastern Pennsylvania.

If you suspect you or a loved one have any of the conditions listed above, we’re here to help. Just complete the form below and we’ll be in touch.