Is It Time to Visit an Orthodontist? Insights from an Edgebrook Area Dentist

When Should I See An Edgebrook Area Dentist or Orthodontist?

You may be wondering: “Does my condition require a visit to the orthodontist?” For the most part, if you have any issues with dental or jaw alignment, you will need to see an orthodontist. You may also benefit from a visit if you notice any issues with the quality of your bite — if you have difficulties chewing, biting, or speaking, for example. However, there are other conditions where the lines are a little blurred. If you find yourself grinding or clenching your teeth, breathing through your mouth, or if you have an inability to close your lips comfortably, your condition may or may not require orthodontic treatment, but a completely different treatment.

Children’s Orthodontics

Since children’s mouths are still developing, there are additional considerations that will come into play. It is recommended by the American Academy of Orthodontists that a child has an orthodontic examination no later than age 7. There are two main reasons for this. First, an orthodontist can easily determine if the development of the mouth is going in a correct or problematic direction, and they can diagnose any larger issues before they manifest themselves.

At this stage of the development process, any issues are much easier to treat. For example, a crossbite can be much more effectively treated using a palatal expander appliance because the jaw is still growing at a fast rate. However, if the condition is left untreated past childhood, the only effective treatment may be oral surgery.

An orthodontist will also be able to treat other common issues that first appear during childhood, such as late or early baby teeth, mouth breathing, tongue thrusting, and thumb sucking. If your child is displaying any of these symptoms, it’s a good idea to visit an orthodontist. It’s important to keep in mind that, even though some conditions will be detected at this early stage, treatment will likely start later on, between the ages of 9 and 14.

Orthodontics for Adults

So now that we’ve established when children should visit the orthodontist, what about adults? There are many issues which can be addressed through orthodontic treatment, even in adulthood. Overbites, underbites, misaligned teeth, and jaw issues can all be treated effectively in adults. In fact, around 20% of orthodontic patients are adults today.

Being an adult undergoing such a treatment can have its benefits, even though the structure of the mouth is fully developed at this point. For one, adult patients do not usually have problems with compliance and the discipline needed for an effective treatment. On top of that, thanks to new technological developments and methods, you have lingual braces, translucent ceramic brackets, and clear aligners, which are virtually invisible. This is great news for professionals working in various fields, who might be reticent about undergoing treatment due to the effect it would have on their image at work.

Having properly aligned teeth can have a tremendous impact on your overall health and wellbeing. Aside from the aesthetic effects, well-aligned teeth are easier to maintain and clean, and they are more durable. The better bite that will develop during the treatment will remove any problems you have with eating, and even some speech impediments. Plus, you’ll only have to undergo the treatment once. After your teeth have been aligned, they will stay that way for the rest of your life, as long as you wear your retainer as instructed.

Do You Require an Orthodontic Consultation from a Edgebrook Dentist and Dental Office?

Orthodontic issues can be a real hassle, and if left untreated, they can lead to more serious problems. If you or your child has any of these issues, do not hesitate to contact us today. We provide orthodontic treatments in Edgebrook area, along with a host of other dental services designed to improve your health and smile.