4 Signs You Need Orthodontic Treatment

Posted on March 31, 2023

Getting help from an orthodontist is a great way to improve the health and aesthetic of your smile. Orthodontic treatment can help to realign crooked teeth, close gaps between teeth, eliminate overcrowding, and even improve jaw alignment issues. If you are experiencing any of the following signs, then it might be time to make an appointment with a qualified orthodontist.

1. Overbite and Underbite

According to the American Association of Orthodontists, over a quarter of U.S. and Canadian orthodontic patients are adults. Many adults still struggle with overbites and underbites. An overbite occurs when the upper teeth cover too much of the lower teeth, while an underbite is when the lower teeth protrude past the upper ones. Overbites and underbites can cause problems with eating and speaking, as well as tooth issues such as cavities and gum disease. If you have severe overbites and underbites, you should consider orthodontic treatment.

2. Crowded Teeth

Crowding occurs when there is not enough space in the jaw for all of your teeth. This can be caused by genetics, premature loss of baby teeth, or thumb-sucking as a child. Crowding causes it to be harder for you to properly brush and floss your teeth and can increase the risk of plaque buildup and tooth decay. Crowded teeth can also be difficult to clean around if you are using manual flossing tools or a dental water jet. Orthodontic treatment can help move your teeth into a better position that is easier to maintain.

3. Gaps in Teeth

If you have gaps in between your teeth, it can be an aesthetic issue as well as a dental health concern. Gaps between the teeth can make it difficult to properly clean the affected area and increase the risk of plaque buildup or cavities. Orthodontic treatment such as braces or Invisalign can help close the gaps and improve your dental health.

4. Misaligned Jaw

Many patients with misaligned jaws do not realize that their jaw is the problem. An uneven bite can cause problems such as temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder, which can lead to headaches, neck and shoulder pain, as well as jaw pain when opening or closing your mouth. Orthodontic treatment can help realign your jaw, which can improve the function of your bite and help relieve pain associated with TMJ disorder.

If you are experiencing any of these signs, it’s important to see a qualified orthodontist. Our orthodontist can help diagnose the problem and recommend a treatment plan to help improve your oral health and aesthetic. Give us a call today to schedule an appointment.