Telltale Signs That it is Time to Visit an Orthodontist

If you have noticed changes in your smile, your teeth are crooked, or it has become more difficult to chew certain foods, you need to see a Leander, TX orthodontist. Unfortunately, some choose to postpone orthodontic treatment until later in life. In order to ensure the health of your teeth and gums, it is important to check your mouth for any signs of irregularities.

Here are the signs to watch out for.

When to visit an orthodontist

  • You love grinding your teeth

If you grind your teeth, it is very easy to ignore the damage you are doing, especially if it happens only in the middle of the night. But this can cause discomfort and pain that lasts long after you have finished grinding and potentially damage your jaw joints and teeth. If you have a wobbly tooth or regularly experience pain in your jaw, mouth, or neck while grinding or clenching your teeth, it might be time to see an orthodontist.

  • Difficulty chewing food

It is normal for people to have slight differences in the angles of their teeth and jaws, but if something about the way you chew feels off, it is probably something to warrant examination by a professional. You may also be experiencing dental pain due to misalignment, or your gums could be receding from tension on your teeth and jaw muscles.

  • The division between upper and lower teeth

The gap between your top and bottom teeth does not have to be perfectly even for them to be properly aligned. But if there is a significant difference in the space between them, it might be an indication that further treatment would help remove any unnecessary strain on your jaw and face.

  • Bite that is uneven

If your upper and lower teeth do not align when you bite down, this could cause a wide range of dental and oral health problems and TMJ disorders. The best way to ensure that everything is properly aligned is with braces. But you will need to consult an orthodontist for guidance.

  • Your teeth are crowded, causing you to bite your cheek or tongue

If you have noticed that you are biting your cheek or tongue because your teeth are pushing together or that it is difficult to chew certain foods, visit an orthodontist. Crowded teeth can also throw off the bite of your entire jaw, causing headaches and pain in the jaw joint. Teeth that are pushed together can chip or fracture more easily than if they were spaced properly. So if you have a mouth full of crooked, crowded teeth or even just one or two teeth that are out of place, make an appointment with an orthodontist to find out whether braces will fix the issue and prevent future problems.

  • Visibly deformed jaw

While it is true that most people have some degree of crowding, spacing, or misalignment of their teeth, those who have a pronounced case of misalignment may be suffering from an orthodontic problem. Often, the jaw is visibly deformed due to a poorly aligned bite. This condition can be fully corrected through orthodontic treatment.

You may need orthodontic treatment if you have a crooked jaw, spacing between teeth, or an overcrowded mouth. In this case, visit your orthodontist at Pendleton Orthodontics, who will examine your mouth and give you a diagnosis.

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