Dental braces are tools orthodontists use to straighten teeth and align them properly with a person’s bite. They also help improve overall dental health. But how can you tell if you need braces? There are numerous reasons your dentist might recommend braces. Your dentist will apply their expertise to detect dental concerns needing braces. Some of these issues might include:

     1. Your Upper Teeth Overlap the Lower Teeth

Orthodontists call this condition a deep bite or overbite. An overbite occurs when the upper front teeth hang too far over the lower front teeth (vertically).

Some overbites are subtle and hard to notice since the lower front teeth are completely hidden when biting. However, people with severe overbite experience increased pressure on their teeth when chewing. This makes them more likely to have worn, damaged, or chipped front teeth.

Misaligned teeth can make other dental treatments harder. Examples include crowns, veneers, and implants. If untreated, the misalignment may worsen, leading to more dental problems. Fortunately, braces can effectively correct overbites.

     2. Your Upper Teeth Stick Out In Front Of Lower Teeth

Orthodontists call this condition overjet, but most people know it as buck teeth. It happens when the lower jaw is smaller and sits behind the upper jaw, causing the upper front teeth to protrude forward or horizontally. Overjets vary in degree from slight protrusion to very pronounced. In extreme cases, the front teeth could be so far forward that they remain visible even when you have closed your mouth.

Genetics also plays a big role in causing overjets. Childhood behaviors, such as thumb sucking or tongue thrusting, can gradually shift the front teeth forward.

An overjet can make everyday activities like eating and speaking difficult. Protruding teeth are more likely to sustain damage, raising the risk of dental injuries. An unusual position can make it hard for the mouth muscles to close the lips, causing discomfort or awkwardness.

Braces are a great option for correcting an overjet. They gradually shift the teeth into the right position, depending on how serious the problem is. Correcting an overjet:

  • Improves appearance
  • Reduces the risk of dental injuries, and
  • Restores better functionality to the mouth

     3. Your Bottom Teeth Overlap the Upper Teeth

An underbite is not as common as other dental alignment problems. It happens when the upper front teeth sit behind the lower teeth. Underbites often arise from a difference in jaw size.

An underbite can make biting, chewing, and talking hard. It can cause problems with your bite and lead to uneven tooth wear, increasing the chance of damage. A lower jaw that protrudes out can also affect your appearance. This condition may lower your self-esteem and confidence.

Addressing an underbite is important not only for appearance but also for the long-term health of your teeth. If left untreated, an underbite can further complicate dental health by:

  • Causing jaw pain
  • Headaches, and
  • Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders

You can treat underbites in adults, but it is easier to fix them in childhood. Early treatment works better and can reduce the need for invasive procedures later. If you notice signs of an underbite in your child, consult an orthodontist by age 7 or 8. An early evaluation can shape the treatment plan. It also improves the chances of achieving a healthy, functional bite.

     4. The Front Teeth on Both the Upper and Lower Jaws Do Not Touch

An open bite occurs when the top and bottom teeth do not meet properly due to a gap between them. The teeth do not overlap, which makes them look open.

The following habits can cause an open bite:

  • Tongue thrusting
  • Thumb sucking, or
  • Prolonged pacifier use during childhood

While open bites are more commonly seen in children, they are less frequent in adults. However, when they occur, they need a thorough assessment by a skilled orthodontist. People with an open bite often struggle with biting and speaking. The gap between the front teeth can lead to articulation problems, which may cause a lisp or difficulty pronouncing certain sounds.

Open bites can cause discomfort when chewing. If the jaw is out of alignment, it can create unnatural movements in the jaw and muscles, possibly causing strain or pain over time. The inability to close the mouth correctly can also lead to other dental concerns, like jaw pain and TMJ disorders.

Fortunately, braces can realign teeth and jaws. Seeing your orthodontist will help you determine whether your braces will help you achieve proper alignment, enhance function, and improve your appearance.

     5. Teeth Do Not Align On Either Side/Crossbite

A crossbite, also known as a posterior open bite, occurs when the upper and lower teeth in the back of the mouth do not align properly. The dental misalignment can happen for various reasons, including:

  • A narrowed upper jaw
  • Genetic factors
  • Issues with the eruption of the molars
  • Prolonged thumb sucking
  • Mouth breathing during childhood

A crossbite can lead to other complications, including:

  • Uneven wear on teeth
  • Jaw pain
  • Problems with chewing and biting
  • Having to apply extra force while chewing which leads to muscle fatigue
  • The risk of developing temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders
  • Clicking sounds in the jaw

Braces are a common method for enhancing the alignment of back teeth. They carefully push on the teeth, gradually moving them into the right place. If you think you or your child has a crossbite, it is important to see an orthodontist for advice. Your orthodontist can recommend a personalized plan to enhance dental health, improve chewing function, and attain a more balanced smile.

     6. Teeth Crowding

Teeth crowding is a form of malocclusion. Signs to watch for include:

  • Angled teeth
  • Overlapping teeth
  • Teeth that stick out more than others.

You can use dental floss to check for tooth crowding. You might have crowding if the floss does not slide between your teeth. Cleaning crowded teeth can be difficult. The accumulation of plaque can result in problems such as:

  • Damaged tooth surface
  • Dental caries
  • Tooth decay
  • Inflammation and infection of the gums

Gum disease is a leading cause of periodontitis, and individuals with crowded teeth face a higher risk of this condition.

Crooked or crowded teeth can happen for several reasons. One common cause is having a jaw that is too small for the teeth, which makes them move and overlap. Genetics often play a big role in this. Also, wisdom teeth can cause crowding, making front teeth appear crooked due to weaker support.

     7. Big Gaps Between Teeth

Another indication that braces may be necessary is the presence of significant gaps between your teeth. Spaces can occur in various locations, but they are most common between the front two teeth. Dentists refer to this gap as a diastema.

Gaps between teeth can result from genetics, excess soft tissue, or teeth too small for the jaw. No matter the reason, braces can correct tooth spacing and gaps. This enhances the look of teeth and prevents food from becoming trapped between them, which promotes healthier gums.

     8. You Have Speech Problems

Having crooked teeth can result in speech challenges, such as slurring or lisping. Some kids might grow out of these problems when their adult teeth come in, but others may need braces to help improve their speech.

You use your tongue, teeth, lips, and cheeks to speak. When there is a misalignment in your upper or lower teeth, it can change how your lips close, affecting your speech. Also, if your teeth are too close together, it can restrict your tongue’s movement, making it harder to produce sounds.

If the malocclusion is not fixed, it can cause problems with biting and affect your smile.

     9. Clicking Sounds In Your Jaw

A cartilage connects the upper and lower jawbones, which lets them move as you chew. Misaligned teeth can cause the jawbones to touch or click. Braces might be necessary if your jaw clicks or is noisy when you eat or wake up.

     10. You Have Problems With Chewing

You might need braces if you swallow your food without thoroughly chewing it or feel like you are not chewing it sufficiently. Braces help align your jaw and teeth for proper chewing. This can provide health benefits. The digestive system processes and absorbs nutrients better when you chew your food well. This leads to smoother digestion, better nutrient absorption, and improved gut health.

     11. You Often Injure Your Tongue

Accidentally biting or cutting your tongue is generally not serious. However, you should consult an orthodontist if it occurs frequently and results in pain and sores. They can assist you in determining if braces are suitable for you.

     12. Jaw Pain

A misaligned bite often causes jaw pain and headaches. A misaligned jaw can shift when you sleep, disrupting your rest.

The temporomandibular joint, or TMJ, connects the jawbone to the skull. Problems with the hinge mechanisms of the upper and lower jaws can cause discomfort in the jaw joint and the muscles that control jaw movement. This often leads to pain for people with temporomandibular joint disorders (TMD). The pain normally affects the joints, jaw muscles, and facial nerves.

During your appointment, your orthodontist will check your teeth and jaw. They will see if misalignment is causing your jaw pain.

Benefits of Early Treatment

What is remarkable about braces is that it works for people of all ages. There are many benefits to receiving treatment early. Identifying and addressing orthodontic problems promptly is essential, as this allows for quicker treatment. Starting treatment sooner may also reduce the duration and costs associated with potential complications.

When you spot a misaligned tooth in your child, the American Association of Orthodontists recommends seeing a qualified orthodontist. Treatment might not be necessary initially, but this evaluation can identify changes needing orthodontic treatment later.

Children usually develop their first adult molars at around seven years old, and this age establishes their back bite. This is an ideal time for dental care. This initial development enables an orthodontist to identify possible issues like crossbite, underbite, or overbite. These issues can greatly impact how teeth align and wear down over time, which may cause more dental issues later on. Seeking orthodontic treatment early and keeping a dental history can provide many advantages.

These include:

  • Preventing crowded teeth.
  • Reducing the chances of damage to protruding front teeth.
  • Decreasing the need for tooth removal.

Additionally, it supports jaw development, which promotes balanced facial features.

Taking Care of Your Braces

Properly maintaining your braces is crucial for achieving optimal results. After your orthodontist installs your braces, you should:

  • Brush and floss regularly—brush your teeth at least twice daily and floss daily, especially after meals. This helps prevent plaque buildup and cavities around your braces.
  • See your dentist—regular check-ups and adjustments with your orthodontist are vital for the success of your treatment. These visits allow your orthodontist to monitor your progress, make necessary adjustments, and ensure you achieve your desired results.
  • Make dietary changes—avoid hard, chewy, or sticky foods that can damage your braces. Foods like popcorn, hard candies, and chewing gum can lead to broken brackets or wires, which may delay your treatment. Instead, opt for softer foods that are easier on your braces.
  • To maintain your braces, use tools like floss threaders, orthodontic wax, and interdental brushes. Orthodontic wax can relieve discomfort; floss threaders and interdental brushes help you clean those difficult spots.
  • Stay informed—educate yourself about your braces and how to care for them.

The more care you put into maintaining your braces, the better they will perform.

Frequently Asked Questions

Below are some of the most commonly asked questions about braces:

How Do Braces Work?

Braces apply constant pressure over time to shift teeth in a specific direction. The parts of braces—brackets, archwire, bonding material, and ligature elastic—work together to create this force. Applying pressure to the jaw causes the bone to reshape. This does not happen quickly. Your orthodontist must monitor your teeth to ensure they are moving correctly. The length of treatment can vary from a few months to a few years, based on the complexity of your situation.

Does the Installation Procedure Hurt?

Having braces put on is generally painless. Some people feel minor aches and pains in the first few days of wearing their appliances. Periodic adjustments can also cause soreness. However, this discomfort lasts only briefly. You can manage your pain using prescription or over-the-counter medications, although this is rarely necessary.

What Is the Role of Orthodontists?

Orthodontists are dental experts who identify and treat problems with tooth arrangement, alignment, and gaps. They also address issues with facial and jaw structure. To fix these problems, orthodontists use special tools, including braces and other dental devices.

What Should I Eat With Braces?

Braces have fragile parts. They can handle regular use, but some foods can damage them. Certain foods can also cause other dental problems when food particles stick between the braces and your teeth.

When your orthodontist first installs your braces, your mouth may feel sensitive. Consider eating soft foods to help your teeth as you acclimate to the braces. You can eat foods such as:

  • Scrambled eggs
  • Soft vegetables
  • Soups
  • Bananas
  • Oatmeal
  • Ice cream
  • Mashed potatoes
  • Yogurt
  • Soft cheese
  • Pasta
  • Seafood

Will Extraction Of Any Teeth Be Necessary?

Your dentist may need to perform extractions if your teeth crowd due to your small jaws. They may also need to extract impacted teeth trapped beneath the gum line. Receiving treatment early can prevent younger patients from needing extractions.

Is the Procedure Costly?

Your dentist will determine the exact treatment price after a thorough examination. They will go over the costs and payment methods during your first appointment. They will also evaluate your insurance coverage, optimize your benefits, and handle the claims process on your behalf.

When My Dentist Removes My Braces, Will I Need to Wear a Retainer?

Most of the time, your dentist advises you to wear a retainer. Not using a retainer can quickly move your teeth back to their old positions. This can waste all the progress you made during treatment. Your retainer ensures that your smile remains attractive for years to come.

The time you need to wear a retainer after getting braces can differ for each person. This depends on several factors, such as;

  • How serious your orthodontic issue is
  • How well you follow your orthodontist’s advice
  • How quickly your teeth settle into new positions

Can I Wear Braces If I Have Missing Teeth or Dental Crowns?

Yes. Crowns on teeth act like regular fillings. Orthodontic treatment can also help align your remaining teeth, even if you miss a few.

Find a Professional Dentist Near Me

The best way to see if you need braces is to set up a visit with your orthodontist. Many offer free first consultations to check for any issues. Then, they can create a plan to help you obtain the smile you desire.

At Beach Dental Care Anaheim, we provide great orthodontic care for everyone, from children to adults. Our options include traditional braces, clear braces, and aligners. We use modern technology in our practice to give the best treatment possible. If you think you need braces in Anaheim, contact our dentists anytime. We will keep you informed and happy throughout your care. Call us now at 714-995-4000 to book your appointment.