While it is advisable to check teeth at least twice annually, dental health care has never been severe. An orthodontist is a specialized dentist that helps patients obtain better oral health. They diagnose, prevent, and treat misalignments in teeth and jaws. They allow you a better smile and prevent other severe teeth conditions. Here are more reasons why you need to visit an orthodontist:
Teeth Straightening
People with crooked teeth visit an orthodontist to straighten their teeth. Crooked teeth are physically bothersome and can reduce your self-esteem and confidence. It is important to take kids for screening and teeth straightening before the situation worsens. It is a preventive approach to stopping teeth-related problems in the future. Teeth straightening is a quick and straightforward process mainly because many braces are on the market.
Overcrowded Teeth
You may fail to realize it, but teeth keep moving throughout your life. Occasionally, people develop many teeth in a specific area in their mouth. If you have this problem, you can visit an orthodontist to have the problem solved. They extract one or two teeth in crowded places and put on braces. Overcrowding teeth can lead to long-term dental and gum problems if not addressed early. And, if you don’t visit an orthodontist before, the situation will likely worsen in your golden years.
Gaps
Some people lose teeth instantly and are left with gaps in their mouths. Other times, you can lose teeth as you grow older or be born with gaps naturally. Molars and premolars can also decay and space out; hence you are forced to remove them from your mouth. Gaps can cause sudden changes in teeth positions, which can be dangerous to your gums. If the problem is not handled early, you might be forced to undergo surgery.
Bite Issues
Bite issues are a common dental problem that occurs due to the misalignment of teeth. In some cases, they can affect one’s speech and facial appearance. There are four types of bite issues; overbite, underbite, open bite, and crossbite. The difference between overbite and underbite is that overbite occurs when the upper front teeth overlap the lower teeth, while underbite is the opposite. Overbites are more common compared to underbites. An open bite is an open space between the rows of your teeth; the gap can be at the front or sides. Lastly, a crossbite is a form of misalignment that is said to be inherited. If crossbites are not addressed early, you can be affected with arthritis, pain, and damaged jaws.
As much as people believe that only children should visit an orthodontist, studies show that adults are more likely to fight teeth problems than children. Orthodontists can correct any tooth problem, be it gaps, overcrowded teeth, crooked teeth, or bite issues. It is crucial to visit an orthodontist to understand the difference between overbite and underbite, and to know if you are suffering from any of them. Additionally, you should ensure the orthodontist you choose is well-experienced with a minimum of 3 years of training.