Do you need braces? If you feel insecure about the appearance of your smile, you are not alone. More than half of adults in this country say that they do not like the appearance of their teeth. If you are interested in learning about braces, you came to the right place. Below, we'll explore topics like when you need braces and how long you need braces. If you experience any of the seven signs that you need braces, Carolina Braces can provide the highest standard of care for you or a family member.
1. Overbite Or Underbite
Orthodontic treatment is commonly used to address an overbite or underbite. When the jaws are closed, the upper row of teeth naturally slightly overlaps the bottom row. An overbite results from the upper arch of teeth jutting forward of the lower arch.
An underbite is the opposite problem. If the lower arch of teeth overlaps the upper arch of teeth when the jaws are closed, you likely have an underbite.
2. Your Teeth Have Shifted
Dental shifting is a natural process that can slowly leave once-straight teeth out of proportion. Following orthodontic treatment, you will be given a retainer that you should wear at night to prevent your teeth from shifting.
If you had braces as a child or teen and stopped wearing your retainer, you may require orthodontic treatment to restore symmetry to your smile.
3. Gaps Between Your Teeth
Gaps between teeth are a common reason that people seek braces. Large spaces between your front teeth can be particularly embarrassing.
One common type of gap, a diastema, results from a space between the two upper front incisors. Although many celebrities sport this look, it's not for everyone.
If you wish to address gaps between your teeth, our orthodontists can close those spaces using metal braces or Invisalign clear aligners.
4. You Feel Insecure When You Smile
How do you know if you need braces? The answer is often based on how frequently you smile. Even when you do smile, crooked teeth can leave you feeling insecure or even embarrassed about how your teeth will appear to others.
A straight and symmetrical row of teeth can give you something to really smile about. Whether you are preparing for photos or a big speech, a big and bold smile conveys confidence.
5. Difficulty Chewing
Proper teeth alignment is critical for efficient biting and chewing. When you have poor teeth alignment (malocclusion), your molars cannot effectively chew food. Chewing is an important step in the digestive process.
Many of our patients find that chewing is easier after undergoing orthodontic treatment. Having a better bite is just one of many benefits of treatment using braces or clear aligners at Carolina Braces.
6. Jaw Discomfort Or Pain
Did you know that jaw discomfort is one symptom of poor tooth alignment? When teeth are properly aligned, the jaws are better able to open and close. Crooked teeth can place stress on the jaws, eventually leading to discomfort. Misaligned teeth can lead to nighttime teeth grinding (bruxism), which wears down enamel and can cause teeth to become chipped or cracked.
Poor jaw alignment can also lead to a degenerative condition called TMJ disorder. The temporomandibular joints on either side of the jaws act as a sliding hinge. When the delicate joint is thrown off, facial pain and jaw discomfort can result.
The sooner you address crooked teeth, the better your chances are that you will not develop this serious jaw condition.
7. Tooth Decay
Crooked teeth are more than a cosmetic problem. Overlapping and crowded teeth are difficult to properly clean even when you brush regularly.
Why do you need braces? One reason may be to improve your oral health and lower your chances of developing tooth decay.
Following orthodontic treatment, your teeth will be easier to clean because your toothbrush can more evenly reach almost any part of the surface of your teeth.
Better oral hygiene habits can lead to lower levels of plaque and tartar. Your teeth will be straight and whiter.
What Are My Treatment Options?
At Carolina Braces, we offer traditional braces, Damon braces, and Invisalign clear aligners. Metal braces are not the bulky treatments that they used to be. Many of our children and teens benefit from the streamlined metal braces we offer.
Damon braces use a self-ligating system and archwires to achieve incredible cosmetic results. Damon braces have fewer parts, so they are easier to clean and maintain.
Invisalign treatments are great for folks of all ages, but our adults especially love the discreet nature of the orthodontic treatment. The clear trays are virtually invisible when worn. Invisalign offers the same cosmetic results as traditional braces.
If you have questions about any of our braces and treatment options, a member of our team will be more than glad to explain each option in full.
Do You Need Braces? Call Us Today!
Do you need braces? Now, you probably have a better idea. The real question is, "What do you need to get braces?"
Working with Carolina Braces allows you to have access to multiple high-quality and affordable orthodontic treatment options. Dr. Kent and Dr. Marsh are passionate about providing great care and exceptional cosmetic results to all of our patients.
To schedule your next visit, contact our Sawmill or Brier Creek locations today. We look forward to serving you through your orthodontic journey.
