A LOT OF PEOPLE don’t know very much about how orthodontic treatment works, which means that we tend to hear a lot of the same questions from our patients. Let’s head some of those off with a quick Q-and-A session, but make sure you bring any questions we don’t cover here to your next appointment! What is a malocclusion? “Malocclusion” means “bad bite” in Latin, and it’s the umbrella term for the following problems: Overbites: the upper teeth overlap the lower teeth more than they should when biting down Underbites: the lower teeth cover the upper teeth when biting down Crossbites: some upper teeth are in front and others are behind when biting down Deep bites: an overbite so extreme that the lower teeth touch the gums behind the upper teeth when biting down Each type of malocclusion comes with a different set of dental health risks and other problems…

How your top teeth and bottom teeth fit together is important for your teeth to remain healthy. It is also important to have straight teeth so that your bite can fit together in a balanced and happy manner. Dental arch form is ideal only when it is a “U” shaped. The teeth are fitting best when all of the teeth are aligned and the top teeth are gently overlapping the lower teeth. A proper bite prevents crowding, periodontal consequences, and tooth wear problems down the road. Also, jaw problems are reduced by creating a healthy bite. Orthodontics creates a healthy bite whether we employ Invisalign or traditional braces. As an orthodontic practice, we create beautiful smiles, but just as important, we create healthy bites for our patients that last a lifetime. This patient achieved not only a nice alignment, but also a healthy bite. If you are interested in taking…

Chalk Your Walk Sidewalk Contest  *To submit photos, please email them to generalinfo@drmcsurdy.com or send them though a direct message on Facebook or Instagram. *The photo submission with the most votes at the end of the day on September 4th will be chosen as the winner. The gift card must be picked up at one of our office locations and cannot be mailed (Collegeville or Gilbertsville).