What causes dental and facial problems?
Malocclusions (when opposing teeth of the upper and lower jaws fit together improperly) are both inherited and acquired. Crowded teeth, too much space between teeth, extra or missing teeth, and general mouth and jaw features are examples of inherited problems. Acquired or local factors such as thumb or finger habits, tongue thrusting, airway constriction, decay or gum disease, trauma, and premature loss of baby teeth also contribute to poor tooth alignment and bad bites.
