Reasons to Seek Orthodontic Treatment – Allen, TX
When to See an Orthodontist
Some of our new patients come in for their consultation already knowing that they need braces or clear aligners. Other people, though, are unsure of whether they have any real reasons to seek orthodontic treatment. Are you uncertain of whether you need to visit our Allen orthodontic office? If so, you should probably book a complimentary consultation. In the meantime, you can read this page to get an overview of some common reasons why you may need the care of a qualified orthodontist.
Bite Issues
Bite problems, also known as malocclusion, can sometimes be subtle and difficult to detect without the guidance of a professional. They include things like:
- Underbite:The bottom teeth overlap the top teeth.
- Overbite:The top teeth extend too far beyond the bottom teeth.
- Crossbite:Only some of the bottom teeth overlap the top teeth.
- Open bite: The top and bottom teeth do not properly connect with one another while the mouth is closed.
Bite problems can affect your dental health and facial aesthetics, so it is certainly worth your time to get them corrected.
Improper Spacing
Your teeth should be neatly lined up next to one another. If there is too much space between them, or too little, this can adversely affect your appearance. Even worse, it can put you at an increased risk of issues like gum infections and cavities. Your teeth may also be more prone to breakage. Therefore, spacing issues are one of the most common reasons why people seek the help of an orthodontist.
Functional Problems
The placement of your teeth can have a big impact on how your oral structures function. For example, dental misalignment can make it difficult to chew various foods, especially ones that have a starchy or sticky texture. Misaligned teeth or a narrow jaw could also affect your airway function and increase your risk of sleep apnea. Some individuals even have a speech impediment due to improper placement of their teeth and jaws.
TMD
Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD, also known as TMJ) is a common condition that can cause jaw pain, headaches, and a range of other troublesome symptoms. It can have many different causes, but in some cases, misaligned teeth are to blame, and an orthodontist is the best person to address the problem.
Aesthetics
For some people, their misaligned teeth are not a serious threat to their oral health. They may be able to speak, chew, and breathe without any difficulty. However, they may feel self-conscious about the way their teeth look. For example, some teeth might be slightly rotated, or there might be a misplaced midline (your smile’s midline is its middle point, the space between your two front teeth). There is no shame in seeing an orthodontist simply because you want to look your best and smile with confidence.
Orthodontists Can Accomplish Great Things
Orthodontists are capable of taking on complex, severe cases. If you are struggling with any of the above-listed issues, our Allen orthodontic team is ready to help you. Get in touch with us today to learn more about our services at Hanson Orthodontics of Allen.