How to Know if You Need Braces
Braces are usually associated with straightening crooked teeth, but they serve a broader purpose in addressing various oral health issues. Recognizing these problem areas and seeking treatment can prevent many unpleasant oral health problems and lead to a healthier smile.
At Families First Orthodontics, we provide complimentary orthodontic consultations, including high-resolution imagery and a personal consultation with a treatment plan with the best type of braces for you. Read on to learn more about common orthodontic issues and signs that you or your child might need braces:
Teeth Crowding: Lack of Space in the Jaw
Teeth crowding happens when there isn’t enough space in the jaw for all teeth to erupt correctly. As a result, teeth can come out at odd angles or can be tucked behind other teeth, which makes them challenging to clean. Even the best brushers and flossers will face an increased risk of tooth decay and gum disease when their teeth are misaligned.
Dental crowding can be the fallout from various environmental, congenital, and behavioral causes. One of the most common behavioral reasons is sucking on a thumb or pacifier beyond the infant and early toddler years. This constant pressure on the teeth can cause them to move out of place, crowding out the rest of the mouth.
Fortunately, crowding is one of the most common reasons for orthodontic treatment and the care plan is well established. If your child has crowded teeth, talk with their dentist about the right time to seek an orthodontic consultation. For some kids, starting phase one treatment early can shorten their overall treatment timeline.
Open Bite: Front Teeth that Don't Touch
An open bite is identified by an outward slant of the front teeth, resulting in a gap between top and bottom teeth when the jaw is closed. Open bites can interfere with proper chewing and may affect speech.
The most common causes are misalignment in the jaw, sucking on a thumb or pacifier, and tongue thrusting (pushing the tongue against the back of the teeth).
When we identify an open bite in childhood, a combination of orthodontic treatment and behavior modification can address both the cause and consequences. A successful early care plan could potentially prevent the need for corrective surgery in the future.
Deep Overbite: Lower Front Teeth Bite into Palate
Any time the upper front teeth protrude over the lower front teeth, we call that an overbite. Minor overbites may not require treatment. However, if left untreated, some more extreme overbites can become worse or lead to other problems.
Common secondary problems with overbite include difficulty chewing and speaking, jaw pain, gum disease, and tooth decay. That’s because jaw misalignment can cause teeth to wear down more quickly or cause damage to the roof of the mouth.
Missing Lateral Incisors: Missing Teeth Due to Genetics
Hypodontia is a common condition in which a patient is missing one or more teeth. Importantly, hypodontia refers to a congenital lack of certain teeth; it does not refer to teeth lost through trauma or behavior. Moreover, because it is congenital there is a genetic component. If you have hypodontia, it’s more likely your child will too.
The most common missing teeth are the upper lateral incisors (the teeth between your front teeth and your canines), impacting about two percent of the population. If your child is missing their lateral incisors or any other teeth, our orthodontic team at Families First Pediatric Dental & Orthodontics can offer a number of treatment options.
Underbite: Lower Teeth in Front of Upper Teeth
Whenever a patient’s bottom teeth protrude over the top teeth, we call that an underbite. Just like an overbite, mild cases may not need treatment but can lead to larger problems in the future.
Surgical Underbite Correction
Your orthodontic team at Families First Dentistry & Orthodontics will make every effort to create a treatment plan that is the least invasive and most effective. Most common issues can be corrected with a combination of braces and retainers, but certain irregularities can’t be corrected with orthodontic appliances alone.
Jaw surgery to correct an underbite or other malocclusion may be an option after growth stops, which varies from person to person. An oral surgeon can help move the jaw into a more correct position by adding or removing bone. In most cases, this type of operation can be performed from inside the mouth, leaving no visible scars.
Spacing of Teeth: Teeth with Large Gaps
A condition called diastema, commonly called “gap teeth” is one of the most common orthodontic issues. This most often presents as a gap between the front teeth, but can be located anywhere in the mouth. Diastema is incredibly common among children and doesn’t usually require treatment unless it persists after the secondary teeth come in.
When gaps between teeth persist, it’s usually caused by a mismatch between the size of the jaw and the size of the teeth. Tooth gaps can also be caused by thumb-sucking, tongue thrusting, and gum disease. Many gaps are purely cosmetic and some people are happy with their tooth gap. But more extreme gaps, or gaps in certain locations can lead to tooth decay or bone loss. If you’re unsure whether a tooth gap is problematic, talk with your child’s orthodontist.
Overjet: Protruding Front Teeth
If you recognize any of these alignment issues or are unsure and want peace of mind, schedule your no-obligation orthodontic consultation below.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Getting Braces
What are the signs that I or my child might need braces?
At what age should my child first see an orthodontist?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic evaluation by age seven. Early detection can lead to more effective (and sometimes shorter) treatment plans.
Are braces only for cosmetic purposes?
No, braces not only enhance the appearance of your smile but also improve oral health by correcting bite issues, which can prevent discomfort, tooth decay, gum disease, and chewing difficulties.
How long does orthodontic treatment usually last?
The duration varies based on individual needs but typically ranges from 18 months to 3 years. Our orthodontists can share a specific treatment plan and duration after a free consultation.
What are the alternatives to traditional metal braces?
Alternatives include clear aligners, ceramic braces, and lingual braces. Each option has its advantages, and an orthodontist can recommend the best choices based on your specific treatment needs and lifestyle.
Will wearing braces be painful?
Discomfort after the initial braces fitting and after adjustments is common, but manageable. Tenderness typically subsides within a couple days. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage any soreness. Clear aligners work differently, so if discomfort is a big concern, talk with your orthodontist about your options.
How should I care for my teeth while wearing braces?
Maintain regular brushing and flossing, avoid sticky or hard foods, and attend all scheduled orthodontic appointments. These steps will ensure you get the most from your treatment plan as well as the best oral health.
