Warning Signs That You Need Braces

A lot of dental problems can be traced to poor dental hygiene and lifestyle choices. However, other problems are ingrained in each person’s genetic makeup or due to environmental factors. Dental problems like misaligned teeth, crowded teeth, malocclusions, and others can be traced to different factors. All these issues have a common effect: They can affect the victim’s quality of smile and can also make people more conscious about their appearance. If you suffer from any of these dental problems, a Wichita orthodontist can help. Although an orthodontist can help you correct this problem, you should know that they won’t come to you to recommend treatments, you should make an effort to go to them. If you are wondering whether you need to see an orthodontist for treatments like dental braces, below are some of the signs to watch out for.

Difficult or Painful Biting

Food is one of the most important ways to maintain health and wellness. There are a lot of minerals, vitamins, and nutrients in food to ensure sustenance. However, if you have noticed a painful sensation when you bite down on food or while chewing your food, this may be a sign you need a dentist. Watch out for how your teeth respond to food and fruits. Common food items to test this out with include apples, pear, sticky candy, corn on a cob, and others. 

Sometimes, your problem may not be directly related to painful teeth while eating, it may be that you feel pain because you are constantly biting the inner walls of your cheek or tongue. This problem requires you to seek the attention of an orthodontist for help.

Inconsistent or Excessive Teeth Gap

Sometimes, people are born with a natural condition called diastema. This is when there is a visible gap between the front two teeth. However, others may suffer a problem wherein the gap is applied across their teeth. These gaps often create spaces where food particles are stored thus causing halitosis or mouth odor. In addition to halitosis, people with gaps across their teeth may also become conscious of their smiles and may have a hard time chewing on food. This problem can easily be corrected by an orthodontist using braces. Braces can be used to pull the teeth together thus closing the space between each tooth.

Painful or Clicking Jaw

If you suffer from jaw pain or you have noticed a creaking or clicking sound from your jaw, this may be a major sign pointing towards jaw misalignment. Jaw misalignment can be a really bad issue as it can cause injury and bruises inside of the mouth. To put an end to the injuries and pain, see an orthodontist for help. Your orthodontist will take a careful look at the problem and prepare a treatment plan that will address the misaligned jaw. You can also expect your orthodontist to help with straightening your teeth so that you will enjoy a perfect dental setup.

Crooked or Crowded Teeth

Malocclusions refer to teeth that are either crooked or crowded. Crowded teeth create a problem for affected people as it forces them to be extra careful about their oral health. Food particles may be lodged in crowded areas that may be unreachable by a toothbrush. This can cause mouth odor or even tooth decay over time. People who also have crowded teeth are more likely to become conscious about their smiles thus affecting their self-esteem and confidence negatively. Orthodontists can address this problem using braces. 

If you are unable to tell whether you have overcrowded teeth or not, try flossing. If you experience problems flossing between certain teeth, you may have a crowded teeth problem. 

Protruding Teeth

If your teeth stick beyond your lips, you may have protruding teeth. This problem can significantly affect your appearance and the quality of your smile. This is yet another reason why you need to see an orthodontist. Orthodontists have what it takes to examine the problem and offer treatment recommendations. Treatment may be in the form of braces or other orthodontic appliances to correct the problem and restore your smile.

What to Do If I Need Braces

If you are battling with any of the dental problems listed above, you need to act fast by scheduling an appointment with your orthodontist. Orthodontists offer a wide range of treatment solutions and will carry out a comprehensive examination of your teeth and mouth before recommending solutions. They may also ask questions about painful sensations in the mouth as well as your biting and chewing experience.