Georgia D. Wright 
Regular dental check-ups are vital for overall oral health, detecting issues early on. Your dentist may recommend seeing an orthodontist if you experience signs like difficulty chewing or speaking, jaw pain, crowded or crooked teeth, or an overbite or underbite.
Addressing these concerns with orthodontic treatment not only enhances your smile but also prevents potential oral health complications, ensuring optimal function and aesthetics for a healthy mouth.
You may visit an Orthodontist at Reopelle Orthodontics, when you have the following few reasons.
1. Teeth straightening
Orthodontic treatment straightens crooked teeth, boosting confidence and self-esteem. With various braces options tailored to different lifestyles, achieving a straight smile is now convenient and accessible for many.
2. Overcrowded teeth
Overcrowding, when teeth exceed available space, can lead to dental and gum issues. Orthodontic treatment, including tooth extraction and braces, effectively resolves overcrowding, improving oral health and function.
3. Gaps
Spaces between teeth, whether natural or due to missing molars, can lead to shifting and decay. Orthodontic intervention can prevent further complications and restore dental health.
4. Bite issues
Malocclusion, common in adults, encompasses four types:
- Overbite
- Underbite
- Open bite
- Crossbite
These issues not only affect facial appearance but also lead to physical problems like grinding, headaches, and speech difficulties.
An overbite presents protruding upper teeth, while an underbite involves lower teeth jutting forward.
Open bites show gaps between teeth upon closure, and crossbites result from narrow upper jaws, causing misalignment.
Left untreated, these conditions can lead to pain, arthritis, and jaw damage. Seeking orthodontic intervention is crucial for addressing malocclusion and preventing associated complications.
5. Facial imbalance
Misaligned midline, where upper front teeth don’t align with lower front teeth, can strain the jaw and cause discomfort. Orthodontic treatment can correct this issue.
6. Temporomandibular disorders (TMD)
Jaw movement is made possible by the temporomandibular joint, which joins the jaw to the skull.
Symptoms like jaw muscle pain and difficulty chewing or speaking may indicate temporomandibular disorders, requiring assessment and treatment.
7. Teeth grinding
Jaw movement is made possible by the temporomandibular joint, which joins the jaw to the skull. Seeking prompt evaluation from an orthodontist is advisable to address this issue and prevent further discomfort or complications.
8. Sleeping problems
Sleep apnea, characterized by interrupted breathing during sleep, requires urgent attention. Jaw and teeth alignment may contribute to this condition.
A sleep study and consultation with an orthodontist can aid in diagnosis and treatment planning.
9. Speak clearly
Crooked teeth can affect speech clarity, leading to lisps or difficulty pronouncing certain words.
This can impact confidence, especially in professional settings. Orthodontic treatment offers a solution, addressing misalignment to improve speech and overall self-assurance in the workforce.
10. Improve your digestion
Orthodontic treatment can enhance chewing ability, aiding digestion by ensuring food is thoroughly broken down, reducing the likelihood of digestive discomfort such as gas.
How long does treatment take?
The duration of braces treatment depends on factors like problem severity, patient’s age, and chosen treatment type.
aYounger patients with developing teeth may see faster results. Treatment type and chosen braces also influence duration.
Most individuals wear braces for about 2 years, but discussing options with an orthodontist ensures the best treatment plan for optimal results.
