Orthodontic problems—scientifically known as malocclusions—refer to misalignments of the teeth and jaws. These conditions can affect your bite, appearance, and long-term oral health. At AQR Orthodontics, led by Dr. AQR, a specialist orthodontist in Dubai, we believe in early identification and treatment of these issues to ensure lifelong dental well-being.
Malocclusions are broadly divided into skeletal and dental problems and can occur across all age groups—children, teenagers, and adults. Understanding these types and their age-specific patterns helps in recognizing when to seek orthodontic care.
Table of Contents
Skeletal orthodontic problems
These involve the incorrect positioning or growth of the jawbones. At AQR Orthodontics, we believe in early diagnosis and treatment of these issues for the best outcomes.
- Overbite (Class II Malocclusion): The upper jaw extends significantly over the lower jaw.
- Underbite (Class III Malocclusion): The lower jaw protrudes forward, giving the appearance of a prominent chin.
- Open Bite: The upper and lower teeth do not meet when the mouth is closed, often caused by prolonged thumb-sucking or tongue-thrusting habits.
- Crossbite: The upper teeth sit inside the lower teeth upon biting—can affect front or back teeth.
Dental orthodontic problems
These involve the alignment of the teeth, not the jaws. At AQR Orthodontics in Dubai, we commonly treat the following dental malocclusions:
- Crowding: Not enough space in the jaw for all the teeth, causing overlap or crookedness.
- Spacing: Unnatural gaps between teeth, either due to missing teeth or proportionally small teeth.
- Deep Bite: The upper front teeth cover too much of the lower front teeth.
- Dental Open Bite: When teeth do not properly meet in the vertical plane, even if the jaws are aligned.
Age-wise distribution of orthodontic issues
- Children (6–12 years)
In children, orthodontic issues are often related to habits such as thumb-sucking or prolonged pacifier use. Common concerns include:
- Open Bite: Often the result of oral habits that push the jaws into incorrect growth patterns.
- Crossbite: May result from poor tongue posture or forward jaw habits.
Dr. AQR recommends early orthodontic evaluation around age 7, as endorsed by the American Association of Orthodontists. At AQR Orthodontics, we use child-friendly diagnostic methods to ensure a positive experience.
- Teens (13–18 years)
Teenagers experience significant dental changes as their permanent teeth erupt. Common problems include:
- Crowding and Spacing
- Overbite or Underbite: These may worsen with growth if not addressed early.
This is a great time for orthodontic treatment because the jaws are still growing. At AQR Orthodontics in Dubai, we often use growth modification techniques and advanced braces or aligners tailored to teens’ needs.
- Adults (18+ years)
Orthodontic problems in adults may include:
- Relapse: Shifting of previously aligned teeth due to not wearing retainers.
- Aesthetic concerns: Many adults seek discreet options like clear aligners for a better smile and confidence.
- Adjunctive treatments: Minor tooth movements may be needed for restorative dental work.
- TMJ pain: Misalignment may lead to jaw joint issues, headaches, or chronic discomfort.
At our orthodontic clinic in Dubai, Dr. AQR offers adult-focused solutions, including clear aligners, lingual braces, and accelerated orthodontic techniques for faster results with minimal visibility.
Why choose AQR Orthodontics in Dubai?
Understanding malocclusions and their early detection is key to achieving optimal dental health and facial harmony. Whether you’re a parent concerned about your child’s habits or an adult considering smile correction, AQR Orthodontics, under the expert care of Dr. AQR, offers a wide range of modern orthodontic solutions tailored for all ages.
Located in the heart of Dubai, our clinic is equipped with the latest technology and provides patient-focused care in a warm, welcoming environment.
Final thoughts
If you or your child shows signs of any of the orthodontic problems mentioned above, don’t wait. Book a consultation with Dr. AQR, a young yet expert orthodontist in Dubai, and discover how AQR Orthodontics can help you achieve a healthy, confident smile.
