Top 8 Reasons To Visit An Orthodontist
Although it is common knowledge that you should have a dental appointment every six months, many people do not give their oral health much thought. During these routine appointments, dentists clean the teeth, check for any indications of damage, and notify you if you have other issues that require further therapy. Your dental specialist might refer you to an orthodontist, a professional who corrects jaw and bite irregularities. Dr. Yon Lai Flushing emphasizes that orthodontist appointments are not simply about giving you a pleasant smile, having your teeth aligned also avoids more significant oral concerns. Here are the common reasons to consider an orthodontist appointment.
- Teeth Straightening
Most persons visit the orthodontist to have their alignment issues corrected. Crooked teeth are not only physically troublesome but could also impact your self-esteem and confidence. Often, these procedures are easy and quick fixes. Besides, there are numerous types of braces available that can suit everybody.
- Overcrowded Teeth
Some adults have too many teeth in a single space in the mouth, causing overcrowding issues. Considering that overcrowded teeth are more difficult to clean, overcrowding could result in long-term gum and dental issues. Your orthodontist can correct this concern in various ways, like pulling out a tooth and administering braces.
- Gaps
Occasionally, some individuals’ teeth develop with gaps between them. In other cases, one might lose one or several molars and never have them restored with dentures. The adjacent teeth begin to space out or drift, triggering decay and other physical concerns.
- Bite Problems
Malocclusion or a misaligned bite is also common in numerous adults. There are four major bite problems, namely crossbite, underbite, overbite, and open bite. Bite issues could impact one’s facial contours. Besides, it is vital to fix the problems because they could trigger other physical concerns like clenching, speech difficulties, grinding, and headaches.
- Facial Imbalance
Many adults have front teeth on the upper jaw that do not align with the bottom front teeth. Such misplacements are quite noticeable and can induce additional strain on the jaw, progressively becoming uncomfortable as you age.
- Temporomandibular Disorder (TMD)
The temporomandibular joint links the jaw with the temporal bones of the skull. This joint enables the movement of your jaws. If you have discomfort in the jaw muscles or are experiencing problems moving them to talk and chew, you have a temporomandibular disorder that warrants an orthodontist’s appointment.
- Teeth Grinding
Occasionally, the lower and upper teeth voluntarily grind against one another. Teeth grinding could also happen when you are asleep, prompting your jaws to become sore once you wake up. If you identify this issue, it is important to visit your orthodontist right away.
- Sleep Difficulties
Sleep apnea occurs once your breathing gets disrupted while you are asleep. It is a serious health concern that warrants prompt care. Although numerous factors trigger sleep apnea, it is occasionally associated with how your teeth and jaw are aligned. Your orthodontist will perform a sleep study and tailor therapy to treat the root cause of your condition.
Numerous people believe that only kids and teens should visit an orthodontist. However, the reality is that persons of all ages routinely see an orthodontist to obtain specialized care. An orthodontist is a dental practitioner with specialized training and experience fixing tooth positions for aesthetic and functional reasons. Depending on your specific issue, an orthodontist can suggest various care options, including braces, retainers, palatal expanders, and more. Talk to your orthodontist to discuss your concerns and determine the right solution for you.