6 Signs You Should Schedule an Orthodontic Appointment

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A family dentist and an orthodontist are not the same things. Although they both operate in the field of dentistry, their respective roles differ. Many folks believe that going to an orthodontics office simply involves getting braces for kids. Actually, an orthodontist does more than simply create and install braces. They work with both adults and young children and can treat a variety of dental, oral, and jaw issues. Making an appointment with an experienced orthodontist may be the best thing you can do if you believe you or your child have problems associated with a misaligned bite, such as difficulty chewing or speaking, tooth decay, or pain and discomfort. 

Here are some of the most common warning signals that you may benefit from making an orthodontic appointment:

1. Anything that regular dentistry cannot fix 

The health of your teeth and gums is greatly influenced by the dentist you visit on a regular basis. Cleanings, examinations, fillings, and dental crowns are just a few of the services provided by these specialists. Everyone should visit the dentist on a regular basis to preserve their dental health. A dentist can also help you with teeth whitening. However, there are times when you may need treatment that goes beyond what a regular dentist can provide. In such cases, you should see an orthodontist.

2. Overcrowding

Children can occasionally be born with big teeth or small jaws. In these cases, as soon as adult teeth start to erupt, dental problems can start occurring. Additionally, as a person ages, their teeth may shift over time, resulting in the same issues. In any case, someone who has more teeth than there is room for should consult an orthodontist. The specialist may recommend tooth extraction, braces, invisible retainers, or a combination of these. That obviously depends on the patient, the culprit behind the problem, and its complexity.

3. Misaligned teeth 

The most evident indication that you require orthodontic treatment is if your teeth are crooked or out of alignment. Braces are frequently the ideal course of treatment for this type of problem. Your orthodontic expert can use ceramic braces in addition to the conventional metal type. Another alternative is to use transparent aligners or lingual braces, which are attached to the back of the teeth. Your specialist will determine the best option during an initial assessment. 

4. Bite abnormalities 

Orthodontic treatment may be beneficial for those with abnormal biting, such as an overbite, underbite, or open bite. These conditions have to be corrected quickly since both an overbite and an underbite can lead to a variety of dental problems. Otherwise, your teeth risk deteriorating too quickly. 

5. Mouth or jaw pain

You should visit an orthodontist if you start to feel pain in your jaw or mouth. Any number of underlying reasons might be at play for this kind of problem. TMJ is one in particular. It results in your jaw getting out of alignment, making it pop in and out of position when chewing, yawning, or eating. 

6. Speech problems

Speech problems are frequently confused with other conditions, particularly in young kids. Slurring words, having problems swallowing, or often biting your tongue or gum may first be regarded as a behavioral issue. But these problems could be brought on by crooked teeth. Whether there are speech problems, orthodontists can examine them to see if the teeth's alignment is to blame. 

The bottom line 

If any type of dental problem arises, whether for you or your children, you should visit your family dentist. If your family dentist is unable to resolve the problem, you will be referred to an orthodontist. That specialist will do the appropriate tests to determine the problem and then will advise you on the best course of action to take.