When do you Need Orthodontics?

Orthodontics is a branch of dentistry that is concerned with the prevention, diagnosis, and management of bad bites. Getting crooked or misaligned teeth with orthodontic treatment is necessary for having a charming and attractive smile and allowing you to eat and speak without difficulty.
But when is orthodontic treatment required, what problems can it fix and more importantly, do I need orthodontic treatment? This article explains everything you need to know about orthodontics.

When should I go to an Orthodontist?

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that you take your child for a checkup with an orthodontist no later than his or her 7th birthday. This is because an orthodontist can see problems with your child’s teeth even when a few baby teeth are still present. More importantly, earlier diagnosis of orthodontic issues will minimize the possibility of developing severe problems and decrease the time and complexity of the treatment, if required at a later stage.
So, does this mean that orthodontic treatment is only for the preteens and kids? No, certainly not! Although it is easier for your dentist to fix a bad bite at an early age – since it’s easier to move the teeth or realign the jaws during the earlier years of life – this does not mean that the adults cannot get their bite fixed. Anyone can benefit from orthodontic treatment at any age!

What Problems Can Orthodontics Fix?

Orthodontic treatment can fix a variety of problems related to the alignment of your teeth and jaws. If you have any of the following issues, then you may benefit from orthodontic treatment:
● Crowded teeth
● Excessive gaps between adjacent teeth
● Misaligned or crooked teeth
● Underbite – a condition in which lower teeth protrude or extend excessively beyond their upper counterparts.
● Overbite – a condition in which the upper teeth completely overlap the lower ones
● Jaw Joint Problems – your jaws tend to shift or make sounds when you are eating or speaking. This could indicate an uneven bite that generates pressure one or both jaw joints.
● Difficulty in Chewing – if you have difficulty chewing your food – as it might be because of misaligned teeth that fail to provide sufficient chewing force.
● Mouth Breathing – sometimes, uneven alignment of the teeth or the jaws can create difficulty in breathing. Seeking orthodontic treatment in these cases can improve breathing – and prevent other respiratory complications.

Is Orthodontic Treatment Necessary for Everyone?

The simple answer, no. Not everyone needs to seek the services of an orthodontist. Only those individuals who have a problem with their bite or the alignment of their jaws need to see their orthodontist for treatment. You can consult your dentist or orthodontist if you feel that you or your loved ones need treatment for a bad bite.
Thanks to modern dentistry, there are now several options available to treat virtually any orthodontic problem. Getting your teeth straightened with braces or Invisalign aligners will not only improve your smile but will also help in boosting your self-confidence and productivity. Afterall, it’s never too late to seek the services of an orthodontist!

Are you annoyed by the position of your teeth or is your bite not optimal? Come along to discuss your situation. We are happy to give advice! 🙂