How to Know If You Need Braces!

Some people have teeth that come in straight and stay that way. For the rest of us, we need orthodontic treatment like braces or Invisalign to get the healthy, straight smile we want. How to know if you need braces might not be as easy as it sounds. You may need braces if you’re not happy with your smile and feel self-conscious, if you have problems biting or chewing, or if you experience jaw pain. 

The best way to find out if you need braces is to schedule a consultation with an orthodontist you trust. At Zombek Orthodontics, we offer consultations to find out if braces or Invisalign are right for you.

Signs You Need Braces

So how do you know if you need braces? While some issues will clearly need orthodontic treatment (overbite, underbite, crossbite, gap teeth, crowded teeth, open bite), some are less obvious. Signs include:

• visibly crooked or crowded teeth
• finding it difficult to brush and floss between certain teeth
• frequently biting or cutting your tongue on your teeth
• when your teeth don’t close over each other properly when your mouth is “at rest”
• difficulty pronouncing certain sounds (generally caused by your tongue’s position under your teeth)
• clicking sounded in your jaw, especially when you chew or first wake up
• pain in your jaw or sore jawline after chewing food 

If you or your child is experiencing any of these issues, it’s important to see an orthodontist to reduce the chances of more serious issues later on. 

Teeth That Need Braces 

If you have an overbite, do you need braces? What about braces for crowded teeth? Why do people get braces? 

There are many reasons to get braces. Braces are needed for several oral health problems and health issues. Each one of these can affect your ability to chew or speak, can cause headaches or jaw fatigue, or can cause breathing problems. Here is a brief description of each type of dental issue you can treat with braces.

• Overbite: Your upper front teeth overlap over your lower teeth beyond what is normal. This can affect biting and speech, which are some good reasons to treat an overbite. 
• Deep bite: Do you need braces for a deep bite? Probably. Your upper front teeth protrude excessively over your lower front teeth. These are sometimes referred to as “buck teeth.” 
• Open bite: Your upper front teeth protrude over your lower front teeth and are splayed outward, leaving a gap between the upper and lower teeth.
• Underbite: Your lower front teeth sit in front of your upper front teeth, which gives the appearance of your lower jaw jutting forward. 
• Crowding: Your teeth don’t have enough room to line up correctly, so they may be twisted or may sit in front or behind the rest of your teeth. 
• Gap teeth: Your teeth may have an extended gap between them. This often happens with the front teeth or between teeth where a tooth is missing. 

Sometimes the best way to tell if you need braces is simply to see real-life examples. While every case is unique, it can be helpful to see cases similar to your own prior to meeting with an orthodontist. If you’re wondering why people get braces, here are some of our amazing smile before and afters!

When Should My Child See an Orthodontist?

While many parents believe they need to wait until a child has all of their permanent teeth, the American Association of Orthodontists recommends an earlier check-in — by Age 7. Usually, your child won’t need to see an orthodontist earlier than that. However, if your child is suffering from orthodontic problems, it might be a good idea to see an orthodontist early. 

In addition to the signs above, here are some specific indicators that your child needs braces:

• difficulty chewing
• crowded or crooked teeth
• breathing through their mouth
• biting their tongue or cheek accidentally
• early or late loss of baby teeth
• thumb-sucking or pacifier use past Age 2
• teeth don’t come together with a closed mouth

Generally, the earlier orthodontic problems are identified, the earlier and more easily they can be addressed. 

So if you are wondering whether your child would benefit from braces, give Zombek Orthodontics a call. After a thorough exam, we will let you know if any treatment is recommended now or should be considered in the future.

So if you are wondering whether your child would benefit from braces, give Zombek Orthodontics a call. After a thorough exam, we will let you know if any treatment is recommended now or should be considered in the future. 

Find Out More About Whether You Need Braces

It isn't always easy to figure out if you need braces, but Zombek Orthodontics is here to help! Our examination for new patients can let you know whether you or your child should consider a treatment option with braces or treatment with Invisalign or Invisalign Teen. Treatment plans are personalized for each unique case. 
We can answer any questions you may have and start you on the path to the smile of your dreams! Just give us a call to schedule an appointment or start a virtual consult from anywhere. We’ll guide you every step of the way!