Common Orthodontic Problems in Hawes Side

Many people in Hawes Side live with orthodontic problems without realising there are effective solutions. Left untreated, some of these problems worsen and become harder to correct. This guide explains the common problems, their causes, and how each is corrected.

Early Assessment in Hawes Side

Many orthodontic problems are easier to treat when identified early — particularly in growing patients where jaw development can still be guided. Orthodontists generally recommend a first assessment by age 7–8, not because treatment starts then, but because a specialist can identify developing problems that benefit from early intervention.

Crossbites, severe protrusion, and skeletal underbites are often better managed with interceptive treatment at age 8–10 than waiting for full adult dentition. Contact an orthodontic practice in Hawes Side to arrange an early assessment if you have concerns.

Orthodontic Problems in Hawes Side — Local Context

Appointment availability and the range of treatments on offer both vary practice to practice around Hawes Side. ONS classifies Hawes Side as urban: Nearer to a major town or city. NHS dental commissioning in Hawes Side falls under NHS Lancashire and South Cumbria Integrated Care Board. Hawes Side has a smaller share of children than most areas — 13.6% of residents are under 16. Census 2021 counts 1,589 residents in the neighbourhood around Hawes Side, 5.7% of them aged 10 to 15, close to the 6% average across Blackpool. Measured by orthodontic practices within five miles (16), Hawes Side has more choice than 87% of towns in England. OHID data for this ICB shows 26.7% of 5-year-olds with visible dental decay. Secondary-age pupils near Hawes Side attend schools such as Highfield Leadership Academy (0.1 miles) and South Shore Academy (0.7 miles). 5 secondary schools are within three miles. DfE figures put 49 schools and 19,656 pupils across Hawes Side's Local Authority. National deprivation data ranks Hawes Side among England's more deprived areas. The nearest university dental hospital to Hawes Side is Preston Dental School, Preston, about 13 miles away, where hospital orthodontic referrals are seen. See local practice availability in Hawes Side → Crowding is the most common presenting problem across the UK. Case complexity — not just preference — is usually what determines whether aligners or fixed braces are recommended.

As a guide, private treatment for orthodontic problems in Hawes Side usually ranges from £1,500 to £5,500. NHS treatment covers IOTN grades 4–5 for eligible under-18s, free of charge.

About 91 of the 1,589 residents of the census area around Hawes Side are aged 10 to 15 (5.7%), the age at which crossbites, protruding teeth and deep overbites are most often assessed for NHS treatment; the nearest secondary school is Highfield Leadership Academy, under a mile away with 751 pupils; skeletal problems such as a true underbite are assessed at hospital orthodontic departments, and the nearest university dental hospital is Preston Dental School in Preston, about 13 miles away.

The Conditions Orthodontists Treat in Hawes Side

Most people who seek treatment in Hawes Side present with one or more of the following — each treatable, and each explained below.

Crowding

Crowding occurs when there is insufficient arch space for all teeth to align correctly. Teeth overlap, rotate, or are pushed out of position. Crowding makes cleaning harder and increases decay and gum disease risk. It is the most frequently treated condition by orthodontists in Hawes Side and responds well to fixed braces or clear aligners depending on severity.

Spacing

Gaps between teeth can result from naturally small teeth, missing teeth, or habits such as thumb sucking. Braces or aligners close gaps by moving teeth into correct positions. Retainers are particularly important after spacing treatment to prevent reopening.

Overbite (Deep Bite)

A deep overbite — where upper front teeth overlap significantly over the lower teeth vertically — can cause wear, damage, and discomfort. Fixed braces are the most effective treatment for significant overbites; clear aligners address mild to moderate cases.

Underbite

An underbite is the reverse — the lower teeth or jaw sit out in front of the upper ones. If it's a dental issue, braces or aligners correct it; if the jaw itself is misaligned (a skeletal underbite), that can mean orthodontics combined with jaw surgery. Catching it early in a growing child sometimes allows growth to be guided instead, avoiding surgery later.

Crossbite

A crossbite occurs when one or more upper teeth bite inside the lower teeth. Crossbites are associated with asymmetric jaw growth, tooth wear, and gum recession. Fixed braces, expanders, or aligners correct crossbites depending on severity. Early treatment in children is often recommended.

Open Bite

An open bite leaves a gap between upper and lower front teeth when biting. Often linked to thumb sucking or tongue thrusting. Affects the ability to bite food and can impact speech. Treatment options include fixed braces with vertical correction mechanics and, in skeletal cases, jaw surgery.

Protrusion

When the upper front teeth angle noticeably forward — usually alongside a large overjet — they're more exposed to injury than they should be. Fixed braces, sometimes paired with extractions to create space, treat this effectively; in growing children a functional appliance can guide jaw development instead.

Frequently Asked Questions — Orthodontic Problems in Hawes Side