Is It Time You Visit An Orthodontist? 3 Vital Signs

Posted on: 28 January 2022

While many people brush and floss their teeth regularly, they don't go further to give more attention and care. However, some teeth problems require professional treatment, and it would be best to visit your dentist regularly for checkups. You may wonder, when should you see an orthodontist? The expert can help with several things, such as braces and Invisalign. These options can be great if you want to overcome problems such as crooked teeth. Are you an adult and worried about the appearance of your braces? You don't need to because your orthodontist can offer less visible braces to cater to your personalized needs. 

Your Teeth Have Shifted Over Time

Teeth shifting may occur over time. Typically, this may occur due to tongue thrust, injury, and natural growth. For example, if you had braces during your teen years and you need them as an adult; it means your teeth shifted as you grew older. The extent of this movement can be different from one person to another. An experienced orthodontist is skilled to deal with any of these issues, including dental malocclusions to improve your appearance and brighten your smile. 

Your Teeth Are Overcrowded

One of the crucial signs you need to visit an orthodontist is teeth overcrowding. While you may first think of your appearance, this is more than a cosmetic issue and needs immediate attention. For example, teeth overcrowding can result in difficulty chewing food or speaking. It also makes cleaning challenging because of hard-to-reach areas. This can be a recipe for tooth decay and gum disease. 

Bite Problems

Malocclusion or a misaligned bite is an oral health issue affecting many adults. Bite issues may include crossbite, open-bite, underbite, and overbite. If you have any of these issues, you want to correct them as soon as possible to prevent them from advancing. You don't want a bite problem to advance and lead to speech problems, headaches, clenching, and grinding. 

Your Child's Teeth Are Misaligned

By age 7, you should take your child to an orthodontist. At this time, permanent teeth start to erupt through the gums. This is the right time to go for orthodontic treatment before your teeth grow and become stable. When you enter adulthood, you may discover an oral problem that is more difficult to correct than when you're growing. 

Speak to an Experienced Orthodontist

Having well-functioning teeth can be critical in different areas of your life. If you're struggling with any of the issues outlined above, ensure you see an experienced orthodontist within your locality for correction.  

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