People often ask themselves whether or not they need braces. If you are a parent, you may also ask the same question about your child. So, how do you know if you or your child needs braces? Cypress Orthodontist, Dr. Benjamin Creed has compiled 5 signs to look for:
- You Have Overcrowded and Packed Teeth
If your teeth are crowded and tightly packed, this is a sign that you may need braces. In this situation, braces will not only improve how your teeth look (and increase your self-esteem), but they also can improve the underlying health of your teeth. Overcrowded teeth can lead to plaque buildup, which in turn can lead to gingivitis, cavities and even bad breath.
One sure way to know if your teeth are too crowded is if you have difficulty flossing them.
- Your Jaws Do Not Align Properly
When your upper and lower jaws do not align properly, a gap forms between them when they close called malocclusion. There are many reasons this could happen, such as:
- Thumb sucking and other oral habits
- The formation of oral tissue
- An inherited trait
Regardless of the cause of malocclusion, braces can fix it. This will not only improve your smile, but it will help you chew more comfortably, and it will also eliminate the possibility of gum disease forming because of this condition.
- Your Teeth Do Not Meet Comfortably
When you close your mouth, your teeth should come together perfectly and without any discomfort. For about 70% of people, though, this does not happen. While this is a common problem, without proper treatment this could result in one of the following conditions:
- A variety of jaw problems
- Headaches and other types of head pain
- Erosion of tooth enamel
- Teeth trauma
- Speech impairment
Braces can prevent most of these problems.
- Your Jaws Hurts
If you experience jaw pain, even temporarily, it is a sign that something is wrong. It could lead to serious jaw trauma as well as pain in your face and head. It can also lead to grinding your teeth in your sleep. Left unchecked, jaw pain could further result in a condition called TMJ disorder, which can make it difficult for you to chew or even to speak.
Braces, though, can eliminate most of these issues.
- You Are Suffering from an Incorrect Bite
If your bite is not correct, you can suffer from several problems, such as:
- Biting your cheeks
- Biting the roof of your mouth
- Having your teeth collide unexpectedly
- Having difficulty pronouncing certain words
Orthodontic treatment, though, can correct your bite and alleviate these problems.
Other Signs You May Need Braces
You may also need braces if your baby teeth came out earlier than expected or if your jaw shifts when you either speak or chew.
When Should You Seek Orthodontic Treatment in Cypress, Texas
If you think your child may need braces, the best time for treatment is before they reach 7. But adults can get braces at any time. If you are suffering from any of the conditions listed here, now may be the best time to seek treatment at Creed Orthodontics. Consultations are free of charge.