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Protruded Teeth

'Protruded teeth' is the medical / orthodontic term for what is known in common parlance as 'buck teeth', namely where the front teeth at the top jut out from the mouth.  

Protruded teeth can be simply genetic (or inherited) or can be caused by activities such as continued thumb sucking after age three. 

Having protruded teeth may make them more prone to damage and injury, and may cause problems with speaking and eating, and can look unattractive.

Appropriate orthodontic treatment for protruded teeth will depend on the exact causes and the person's age. Most orthodontic treatment is more effective after adult teeth have come through, which is at 11-13 years of age, although some treatment can be started as early as age 8-9.