How Do I Know If I Need Braces?
Are you wondering if braces are right for you or your child? While only a dentist or orthodontist can determine if braces are necessary, several common signs may indicate that orthodontic treatment could help improve your smile, bite, and overall oral health.
Functional Signs You May Need Braces
Braces do more than straighten teeth—they can also improve the way your mouth and jaw function. You may benefit from braces if you experience:
Pain or discomfort: Frequent soreness in your jaw, facial muscles, or recurring headaches may be related to bite misalignment.
Difficulty chewing: If chewing or biting into food is uncomfortable, your teeth may not be aligning properly.
Biting your cheeks or tongue: This often happens when teeth are crowded or misaligned.
An uneven bit: Underbites, crossbites, and overbites are all solved with orthodontic treatment.
A clicking or popping jaw: A misaligned bite or teeth may contribute to clicking, popping, or discomfort when opening and closing your mouth.
Speech difficulties: Crooked teeth can sometimes contribute to lisps or pronunciation issues.
Mouth breathing: In some cases, orthodontic treatment can improve airway function and reduce mouth breathing caused by bite or jaw alignment issues.
Visual Signs You May Need Braces
Some orthodontic issues are easy to recognize simply by looking at your teeth. Common signs include:
Crowded teeth
Overlapping teeth
Gapped teeth
Crooked or rotated teeth
Other Indicators
A few additional factors may increase the likelihood that braces will be recommended:
Losing baby teeth early or late: Baby teeth help guide permanent teeth into their proper positions. Losing them too early or too late can affect how adult teeth erupt and may lead to crowded, gapped, or crooked teeth.
Thumb sucking: Thumb-sucking into late toddlerhood can cause misaligned teeth and bite problems, which may require orthodontic treatment later on.
We Can Help
The American Dental Association recommends that children receive an orthodontic evaluation by age 7. Early evaluations allow dentists to identify developing problems and recommend treatment before they become more complex.
Whether you're considering braces for yourself or your child, the team at Perry Dental and Perry Dental Kids is here to help. Contact our office today to schedule an orthodontic evaluation and learn about your treatment options.