Maintaining proper orthodontic health is an essential piece of the dental care puzzle.
Correct spacing between teeth and an aligned bite promotes easier cleaning and lowers the risk of long-term health problems caused by orthodontic issues. However, some indicators of orthodontic care are hard to spot.
Issues like crooked or misaligned teeth may stand out immediately, but potential problems like malocclusions (misaligned bites) may go undetected without the proper assessment.
If you’re wondering when to start orthodontic treatment and how to detect common signs that you may need orthodontic treatment, read on for those answers and more!
What Is Orthodontic Treatment?
Before jumping into common signs that you may need treatment, it’s crucial to understand what orthodontic treatment is.
In short, orthodontic treatment is the science of diagnosing, preventing, and correcting misaligned teeth and jaws. Since every mouth is unique, that process looks different for each patient.
Orthodontic interventions often include:
- Metal braces
- Clear aligners
- Palatal expanders
- Orthodontic surgery
- Other appliances
It’s also important to find an orthodontist you trust and that puts you first to ensure you receive proper care.
Asking for referrals from loved ones and researching doctor credentials are great first steps to finding the best orthodontic practice for you!
Common Signs That You May Need Orthodontic Treatment
Many orthodontic issues happen beneath the surface level and require a thorough consultation exam with a licensed orthodontist.
During this consultation, your orthodontist will perform x-rays and bite analysis to potential issues such as:
Crooked or Crowded Teeth
Children often experience crowding as adult teeth move into place. However, your teeth continue to move throughout your life, which means crowding can also occur during adulthood.
Misaligned Bites
Some more severe cases of bite misalignment are easy to detect, while others require bite molds or digital imagining to determine if your bite needs straightening. Typical misaligned bites include:
- Crossbite
- Underbite
- Overbite
Difficulty Chewing or Speaking
A malocclusion may be to blame if it’s challenging to chew your food or you have issues properly speaking.
When your jaws don’t line up correctly, the teeth don’t grind food as they should, and your speech struggles because your tongue doesn’t contact your palate.
Constant Teeth Grinding
You may grind your teeth if your upper and lower jaws are misaligned.
Consistent teeth grinding or clenching is your body’s way of telling you that your jaw is uncomfortable and needs orthodontic care.
Jaw Pain or Consistent Headaches
In addition to teeth grinding, orthodontic misalignments can result in jaw pain or consistent headaches.
The most common area where people notice jaw pain is the joint between the upper and lower jaws or the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). TMJ disorders can cause many symptoms, such as:
- Pain in the face, neck, shoulders, or back
- Jaw stiffness or limited movement
- Clicking or popping sounds in your jaw
Potential Issues From Avoiding Orthodontic Treatment
Visiting the orthodontist may cause you anxiety, but the long-term effects of avoiding the orthodontist won’t pay off in the long run!
If you leave orthodontic problems untreated, a misaligned bite or crooked teeth can cause significant issues that lower your quality of life. The most common problems people experience from undiagnosed ortho issues include:
- Potential breaks from impacted teeth
- Chronic headaches and migraines
- Digestion issues and poor gut health
- Tooth wear leading to extensive dental treatment
Choosing early orthodontic interventions is always best — the American Association of Orthodontists recommends a first orthodontist appointment by seven years old!
However, you should set up a consultation with an orthodontist if you or your dentist notice any warning signs of potential orthodontic issues. No one is too old for orthodontic treatment.
What Sets Orthobar Apart From Other Orthodontist Offices
Orthobar is a privately owned orthodontic practice in Las Vegas that combines a family-oriented environment with cutting-edge treatments.
Our board-certified team of orthodontists leverages advanced digital imaging software, X-rays, and virtual bite scanning to provide patients with detailed treatment plans that transform their smiles!
In addition to outstanding diagnostic equipment, we offer Damon Braces, the best braces technology available, and leading transparent aligner brands to help patients create smiles they’re proud of.
We also understand that offering effective results is only part of what makes an orthodontist great. That’s why relationship-building with patients and their families is at the core of our treatment philosophy.
Experience the Orthobar Difference for Yourself
At Orthobar, we want to change how you perceive orthodontics treatment and service!
Our team is here to provide an unmatched level of patient care in the Las Vegas area and offer industry-leading practices to help you achieve the smile of your dreams.
If you want to schedule a free consultation or have questions about when to start orthodontics treatment, contact us today!
