Function

Orthodontic treatment can restore proper function to the jaws and teeth where function has been compromised from any number of factors.
Proper function of the bite includes being able to bite foods with the front teeth by incising and to crush and grind foods with the side and back teeth to the consistency required for normal swallowing and proper digestion.
Biting and chewing should be possible without pain in the facial muscles or the jaw joints.
Function is compromised when the teeth are in crossbite or when the upper and lower teeth do not come into contact due to an open bite.
Function is also compromised when the upper front teeth are too far ahead of the lower front teeth (excessive overjet) or the upper front teeth overlap the lower front teeth too far vertically (deep overbite).
These functional deficits are frequently due to orofacial myofunctional disorders.