Braces are orthodontic appliances designed to reposition teeth and jaws. They correct dental misalignments, from crooked teeth to improper bites, improving function and appearance. These devices are a common solution for dental irregularities, contributing to overall oral health and facial harmony.
Signs You Might Need Braces
Certain signs indicate a need for orthodontic evaluation. Dental crowding, where teeth overlap, twist, or are too close, makes proper cleaning difficult. Gaps or spaces between teeth (spacing) also signal a need for intervention.
Bite issues are significant indicators. An overbite occurs when upper front teeth extend significantly over lower front teeth, beyond a normal 2-4 millimeter overlap. An underbite involves lower front teeth protruding past upper front teeth. A crossbite occurs when some upper teeth bite inside lower teeth, rather than outside.
An open bite is a visible space between upper and lower front or side teeth when back teeth are closed. Protruding upper front teeth, or “buck teeth,” are also common. Beyond visual cues, functional problems like difficulty chewing, speaking, or biting, and frequently biting the cheek or tongue, suggest misalignment. Jaw pain, clicking sounds, or stiffness in the jaw joint can relate to bite problems. Early or late loss of baby teeth can predict future alignment issues.
When to See an Orthodontist
An initial orthodontic evaluation is recommended around age seven by the American Association of Orthodontists. At this age, children have a mix of baby and permanent teeth, allowing orthodontists to identify subtle issues with jaw growth and emerging permanent teeth. Early detection provides opportunities for timely intervention.
This early assessment may lead to interceptive orthodontics (Phase 1 treatment) for children aged six to ten. This phase corrects significant problems, guides jaw growth, or creates space for permanent teeth while the child develops. Early treatment can reduce the complexity or extent of later orthodontic work.
Adolescence is a common period for comprehensive orthodontic treatment (Phase 2), as most permanent teeth have erupted and natural growth is occurring. Orthodontic treatment is not limited by age. Adults increasingly seek orthodontic care; it is never too late to address misalignments. Adult treatment may involve existing dental work, bone density, and potentially longer durations.
What Happens at an Orthodontic Visit
An initial orthodontic consultation includes a thorough examination of the teeth, mouth, and jaw. The orthodontist discusses the patient’s dental and medical history and any specific concerns. This assessment helps understand the overall oral health context.
Following examination, diagnostic records are collected. These include X-rays (panoramic and cephalometric images) providing detailed views of teeth, roots, and jaw structure. Photographs of the face and inside the mouth are taken, alongside digital scans or impressions to create precise models. These records allow analysis of alignment and structure in detail.
Based on these findings, the orthodontist formulates a diagnosis and presents a customized treatment plan. This plan outlines treatment options, including brace type, estimated duration, and costs. Patients and parents are encouraged to ask questions and discuss concerns.
Impact of Untreated Orthodontic Problems
Leaving orthodontic problems unaddressed can lead to negative consequences for oral health and well-being. Misaligned or crowded teeth are challenging to clean, increasing the risk of plaque buildup, tooth decay, and gum disease (gingivitis and periodontitis). These conditions can lead to complications and tooth loss.
An improper bite can cause uneven wear of tooth enamel, leading to sensitivity or damage. In severe cases, misalignments can affect articulation, causing speech difficulties. Inefficient chewing due to a poor bite can impact digestion, as food may not be adequately broken down, leading to bloating or discomfort.
Misaligned bites are linked to jaw pain and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, causing discomfort, headaches, or clicking sounds. Protruding teeth are vulnerable to chipping or breakage from trauma. Beyond physical health, dental irregularities can affect self-esteem and confidence, influencing social interactions.