At Backus Smiles Orthodontics, we know that deciding whether or not to get braces can feel like a big step. If you’re unsure whether braces are right for you or your child, it’s helpful to recognize the signs that indicate it may be time for our Vestavia Hills, AL orthodontics! Braces are often used to correct issues such as misalignment, bite problems, and overcrowding, which can affect both the function and appearance of your teeth.
Difficulty Chewing Or Biting
When you begin to have difficulty chewing your food or swallowing, this can be an indication that you need braces. When your teeth don’t align correctly, it can lead to difficulty when trying to bite into certain foods, such as apples or sandwiches. A poor bite can also cause excessive wear on your teeth, leading to tooth sensitivity or damage over time.
Crooked Or Overlapping Teeth
If your teeth are crooked, overlapping, or have noticeable gaps between them, this is a common reason people seek braces. Misaligned teeth not only affect the appearance of your smile but can also make cleaning your teeth more difficult, increasing the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Our orthodontist brings over a decade of experience in helping patients care for their braces.
Bite Issues
There are different types of bite problems that braces can correct. The most common include:
- Overbite: This is when your upper teeth protrude too far over your lower teeth.
- Underbite: In this case, your lower teeth extend past your upper teeth.
- Crossbite: A crossbite occurs when some of your upper teeth sit inside the lower teeth.
- Open bite: This happens when there’s a gap between the upper and lower teeth when you bite down.
These bite problems can not only affect your appearance but can also lead to jaw pain, tooth wear, or difficulty speaking and chewing. If you notice that your bite feels off or uncomfortable, it’s worth considering orthodontic treatment to correct the issue.
Teeth Grinding Or Jaw Pain
If you find yourself grinding your teeth, especially at night, or experiencing jaw pain, it could be a sign that your teeth are misaligned. Teeth grinding (also known as bruxism) often happens when your teeth are not in their proper positions. Over time, this can lead to tooth damage and jaw discomfort. Misaligned teeth can also cause temporomandibular joint (TMJ) issues, resulting in pain or clicking sounds when opening and closing your mouth. Our team may recommend TMJ treatment options, including braces.
Speech Problems
In some cases, misaligned teeth or jaw issues can affect speech. People who have an overbite or other bite problems may find it difficult to pronounce certain words or sounds clearly. If you or your child is struggling with speech due to the alignment of your teeth or jaw, braces might be the solution. Realigning the teeth can improve speech clarity and overall comfort when speaking.
While these signs might indicate that braces are needed, the right time to start treatment depends on the specific situation. People of all ages may benefit from orthodontics, including adults. Our experienced orthodontist, Dr. Dominique Backus understands that every case is different. Her successful career includes several memberships, like the American Association of Orthodontists. Call Backus Smiles Orthodontics to see how we can help!