Common Orthodontic Problems

January 13, 2025

Want to Achieve Optimal Oral Health?

Best Orthodontist in Morganton & Hickory, NC

Orthodontic issues are more than just cosmetic concerns—they can significantly impact your oral health and overall well-being. Small & Piers Orthodontics in Morganton and Hickory, NC, specializes in diagnosing and treating a wide range of orthodontic problems to help patients achieve optimal dental health.


Most Common Orthodontic Issues

  1. Crowded Teeth: Insufficient space in the mouth can cause teeth to overlap, making them harder to clean and increasing the risk of cavities and gum disease.
  2. Spacing Issues: Gaps between teeth can result from missing teeth or natural development, affecting both appearance and function.
  3. Overbite and Underbite: These bite problems can lead to enamel wear, jaw pain, and speech difficulties.
  4. Crossbite: Misalignment where upper teeth sit inside the lower teeth can cause uneven wear and lead to gum recession.
  5. Open Bite: This condition, often resulting from thumb-sucking or tongue thrusting, can make it difficult to bite and chew properly.


Health Risks of Untreated Orthodontic Problems

Leaving orthodontic problems untreated can lead to several complications:

  • Increased Risk of Tooth Decay and Gum Disease: Misaligned teeth are harder to clean, which can result in plaque buildup and oral infections.
  • Jaw Pain and TMJ Disorders: Bite issues can strain the jaw, causing chronic pain and headaches.
  • Speech Impairments: Misalignment can affect speech clarity.
  • Tooth Wear and Damage: Improper alignment can cause teeth to wear unevenly, increasing the risk of fractures.


Advanced Orthodontic Solutions

At Small & Piers Orthodontics, we offer cutting-edge treatments to correct these common problems:

  • Clear Aligners: Ideal for treating mild to moderate alignment issues discreetly.
  • Braces: Traditional and ceramic braces offer effective solutions for more complex alignment issues.
  • Retainers: Used post-treatment to maintain alignment and prevent teeth from shifting back.


Whether you're searching for a family dentist in Morganton, NC, or the best dentist in Hickory, NC, our team at Small & Piers Orthodontics is dedicated to providing personalized orthodontic solutions for lasting oral health.



Take the first step toward a healthier, more confident smile—schedule your consultation with Small & Piers Orthodontics today!



Contact Us

110 Juniper St Morganton, NC 28655 USA

382 10th Ave Dr NE Hickory, NC 28601 USA

Teen with braces smiles at Small and Piers Orthodontics.
January 21, 2026
Learn how to prepare your child for their first braces appointment at Small & Piers Orthodontics in Morganton and Hickory, NC for a positive experience.
Boy in dental chair smiling at Small & Piers Orthodontis
January 21, 2026
Early orthodontic assessments at Small & Piers Orthodontics in Morganton and Hickory, NC help guide healthy smile development and prevent future issues.
Woman with long, dark hair smiles with eyes closed, shoulders bare, red flowers in background.
December 17, 2025
Learn more about why straight teeth are easier to keep clean with the best orthodontist in Hickory & Morganton, NC.
Woman in orange blazer on a video call in a car, looking at a laptop, gesturing with her fingers.
December 17, 2025
Learn more about orthodontic care that fits a professional lifestyle with the best orthodontist in Hickory & Morganton, NC.
Woman with braces touching her lip, grimacing in pain.
November 12, 2025
Learn more about how to handle a braces emergency at home with the best orthodontist in Hickory & Morganton, NC.
Dentist examining a child's teeth. Child smiles, wearing purple hoodie. Dentist wears mask, gloves in office.
November 12, 2025
Learn more about what age should my child see an orthodontist with the best orthodontist in Hickory & Morganton, NC.
Close-up of a person's mouth with a missing tooth and chipped adjacent tooth; other teeth are white.
October 15, 2025
Learn more about orthodontic treatment for patients with missing teeth with the best orthodontist in Hickory & Morganton, NC.
Person at a dentist, comparing tooth color to a shade guide held by gloved hands.
October 15, 2025
Learn more about the role of orthodontics in preventing tooth wear with the best orthodontist in Hickory & Morganton, NC.
Close-up of a person's smiling mouth showing clean, white teeth and pink lips.
September 17, 2025
Learn more about why straight teeth support better gum health with the best orthodontist in Morganton & Hickory, NC.
Person with braces smiling, pulling an elastic band between teeth with a finger.
September 17, 2025
Learn more about the importance of wearing elastics for braces success with the best orthodontist in Hickory & Morganton, NC.