Understanding orthodontic conditions starts with diagnosis
Terms such as crowding, overbite, underbite, crossbite and spacing describe what a smile or bite may look like, but they do not explain the entire orthodontic problem. The same visible concern can arise for different reasons. Tooth size, jaw size, eruption patterns, missing teeth, extra teeth, habits, growth and the relationship between the upper and lower jaws can all influence the way a bite develops.
That is why this conditions section is organized as an educational starting point rather than a self-diagnosis tool. A photograph can show that teeth overlap or that a space is present, but it cannot show every factor an orthodontist evaluates. Treatment decisions are based on an examination, dental and facial relationships, appropriate records and the goals of the patient or family.
Crowded teeth
Crowding occurs when there is not enough room for teeth to line up normally, or when eruption and tooth positions create overlap and rotation. Mild crowding may primarily affect alignment. More significant crowding can influence cleaning, eruption and bite relationships. Treatment may involve braces, clear aligners, space management or other strategies depending on age and diagnosis.
Read our guide to crowded teeth.
Spacing and gaps between teeth
Spaces can occur when teeth are relatively small compared with the dental arch, when teeth are missing, when eruption patterns leave open areas, or for several other reasons. Closing every visible gap is not always the correct objective. Sometimes spaces need to be redistributed to prepare for restorative dentistry or to create more balanced tooth positions.
Learn about orthodontic treatment for spacing and gaps.
Overbite and deep bite
People often use the word overbite to describe several different bite relationships. In orthodontics, a deep bite generally refers to excessive vertical overlap of the front teeth. Horizontal projection of the upper front teeth is a different measurement. The distinction matters because the treatment mechanics and underlying causes can differ.
Explore our overbite and deep-bite guide.
Underbite
An underbite can involve tooth position, jaw relationships or both. Growth may be especially relevant in children and teenagers. Some developing underbites benefit from earlier assessment because the timing of treatment can affect the options available. Adult treatment can involve different considerations, particularly when the jaw relationship is substantial.
Read about underbite assessment and treatment.
Crossbite
A crossbite occurs when one or more upper teeth bite inside the lower teeth rather than outside them in the expected relationship. Crossbites can involve front teeth, back teeth or a combination of areas. Some are largely dental; others have a skeletal component. In growing children, the orthodontists may pay particular attention to whether a crossbite is associated with a functional shift of the jaw.
Learn more about crossbite treatment.
Open bite, impacted teeth and other concerns
Our condition library will continue to expand to cover open bites, impacted teeth, protruding teeth, missing teeth, deep bites, jaw-growth concerns and situations where orthodontics may need to coordinate with other dental care. These pages are intended to help patients understand the vocabulary used during an orthodontic consultation.
They are not intended to suggest that every condition requires treatment. Some findings are monitored, some are treated at a particular stage of development, and some may require coordination with a dentist, oral surgeon, periodontist or restorative specialist.
How braces and Invisalign fit into the picture
Braces and Invisalign are appliances, not diagnoses. Both can be excellent tools when they match the movements that need to occur. Fixed braces give the orthodontist continuous control without relying on a patient to remember wear time. Clear aligners are removable and discreet, but consistent wear is essential. Some problems can be treated predictably with either approach; others may favour one system or require additional appliances.
The treatment discussion should therefore begin with what needs to change, not with which product a patient saw advertised. Our Braces vs. Invisalign guide explains the practical differences in more detail.
Conditions in children versus adults
Age can change the treatment conversation because children and teenagers may still be growing and permanent teeth may still be erupting. An orthodontist can sometimes use growth or guide eruption in ways that are not available once growth is complete. That does not mean every child needs early treatment; observation is often appropriate when no immediate advantage exists.
Adults can also receive comprehensive orthodontic treatment. Adult planning may place more emphasis on gum health, missing teeth, crowns, implants and coordination with restorative dentistry. The same label—such as crowding—can therefore lead to a very different plan in an adult than in a growing child.
Serving Surrey Central and Central City
We have served Surrey Central and Central City families for more than 20 years. All orthodontic procedures are performed at our established Guildford flagship location, approximately five minutes from Surrey Central. Patients can use this condition library to become better informed before their consultation, then discuss what actually applies to their own bite with the orthodontic specialists.