The Most Common Reasons for Orthodontic Treatment
Braces are not a modern-day concept—as a matter of fact, their ability to straighten one’s teeth traces back to ancient eras. This evidence of the need for orthodontic work makes a clear point: no one should have to feel embarrassed about their smile or live in pain from ongoing problems with their teeth.
If you or your child need orthodontic services and you want to learn more about the problems that braces can solve, you’re in the right place. Here are the most common reasons for orthodontic treatment to consider today.
An Underbite
When the lower teeth jut out in front of the front teeth, this is known as an underbite. Fixing underbites is a good idea for both cosmetic and non-cosmetic reasons. This is because an underbite increases your risk of oral injury and makes tasks such as talking and eating more difficult.
How Braces Can Help
Braces can correct an underbite by straightening misaligned front and bottom teeth and realigning the jaw. Individuals can then eat comfortably and speak normally.
An Overbite
The other side of the coin is an overbite. In this case, the front teeth rest in front of the bottom teeth. If you’ve ever bitten the roof of your mouth with your bottom teeth, you may have an overbite. If left untreated, an underbite can damage gum tissue and teeth.
How Braces Can Help
Braces can correct this fairly common bite problem and enhance one’s smile by efficiently bringing the teeth back into alignment.
An Open Bite
What about teeth that never touch during a smile? This is known as an open bite. In this scenario, the front and bottom teeth simply do not meet. This occurrence leads to difficulty eating and speaking. People with open bites often struggle with their tongues jutting out when they speak.
How Braces Can Help
Fortunately, braces are strategic treatments for this type of malocclusion, moving the teeth into the correct position to balance the bite.
Crowded or Irregular Teeth Spacing
Many factors or childhood habits, such as thumb-sucking, can cause wide gaps in the teeth or misalignment. If you notice your child sucking their thumb, know that you can replace this tendency with another habit to protect their well-being.
How Braces Can Help
Effectively closing or adjusting gaps between teeth with braces not only changes how a smile appears but also remains advantageous for current and future oral health.
These are the most common reasons for orthodontic treatment. If you notice any of the above issues in yourself or your child, contact a local orthodontist as soon as possible. Addressing these concerns can be just as critical for comprehensive health as healthy eating habits are.
Beyond mere cosmetic reasons, fixing these issues will safeguard oral health for many years to come. A happy smile, strong gums and teeth, better facial structure, and boosted confidence are just a few of the attainable benefits to keep in mind.
Photo – Rodnae Productions
