Should I See an Orthodontist?

Many people dread getting a routine dental check-up. While it is a common fear that a lot of people have, it is necessary to maintain your oral health regularly. Any issues that you are experiencing which are affecting your teeth or jaws should be corrected early. These problems can develop into more serious health issues later on if they are not treated. Mild issues are much easier to treat than more severe ones. If you have info about these dental problems that affect your teeth and jaw, you are encouraged to meet with a trained and experienced orthodontist. If you are wondering whether you should see an orthodontist, see if you are experiencing the following issues. 

Speech Issues

Abnormalities in the jaw or misaligned teeth can cause people to develop speech issues. While attending speech therapy sessions can aid to improve speech, the source of your issue may relate to specific dental problems. If you struggle to pronounce certain sounds or have problems with the way you speak, see an orthodontist determine if your teeth are causing speech impediments.

Overbite or Underbite 

Bite issues are problems that orthodontists often see on a regular basis. An overbite is when the upper jaw extends farther out than the lower jaw, while an underbite is a reverse condition. A problem with your bite can cause you to struggle with chewing, and it can lead to pain in your jaw. You can develop more severe issues such as tooth decay or gum disease. An orthodontist in Orange County, CA, like one at John Redmond Orthodontics, can fix your bite problem using treatment methods like braces and clear aligners. 

Pain and Discomfort

Jaw clicking, pain, and discomfort can interfere with your everyday life. It can make it difficult to chew, drink and eat. If you are experiencing jaw issues, it could be due to a number of issues like overcrowded teeth, clenching, grinding at night, and temporomandibular (TMJ) disorders. Orthodontists can treat your jaw pain by aligning your teeth.

Low Confidence 

Bad teeth can greatly affect a person’s confidence and self-esteem level. Having a bright smile can improve how you interact with your friends, family, and coworkers. If your confidence is being affected by your smile, seeing an orthodontist learn more about treatment options can help. Orthodontists can explain cosmetic and restorative dental treatments that may be suitable for you so you can achieve the smile you’ve always wanted. 

Learn more about services an orthodontist can provide by scheduling an appointment.