Lee Orthodontics

5 Common Problems Braces Can Fix

Posted on November 29, 2021

Lee Orthodontics - Abilene, TX

It’s no secret that braces can drastically improve your smile. But did you know they also provide many other benefits? From correcting tooth and jaw alignment to preventing future dental problems, here are five common problems braces can fix.

1. Crooked Teeth

One of the most common reasons people seek orthodontic treatments is because they have crooked teeth. This could be caused by various factors during development or even simple genetics. While many people may worry that their crooked teeth are too far gone to be helped, this isn’t always true. Braces can gently straighten your teeth, returning them to their ideal position. And with today’s more discreet options, no one will ever suspect you’re wearing braces!

2. Uneven Spacing

Some people are just born with teeth that are spaced differently from each other. While you might not think this affects how your teeth fit together, it can cause problems further down the line. Uneven spacing between your teeth can lead to gum disease and poor dental health, as food is more likely to get caught in the spaces and remain there. Braces can help even things out and give you a healthier-looking smile.

3. Overlapping Teeth

Overlapping teeth, commonly known as “buck teeth,” may be caused by genetics or simply poor jaw development. Whatever the cause, it’s important to get braces if your upper and lower teeth overlap, as this can lead to other problems such as tooth decay and gum disease. The braces can correct the problem and prevent future problems from occurring.

4. Misaligned Jaw

If you’re constantly experiencing jaw pain or popping, clicking, or cracking in your jaw when you eat or open your mouth, this could result from misaligned jaws that need to be corrected with braces. When your jaw is misaligned, it can affect other parts of your body, too. Studies have found that people with misaligned jaws are more likely to suffer from pain in their neck, upper back, and shoulders. Luckily, braces can correct this problem and allow your jaw to function normally.

5. Overbite or Underbite

An overbite or underbite is one of the more noticeable problems that braces can correct. Overbites are when your upper teeth extend past your lower teeth, and underbites are the opposite, where your lower teeth extend past your upper teeth. While many children are born with this problem, it can also be caused by thumb-sucking or even poor oral habits that you develop later in life. Either way, braces can correct the problem and prevent future dental problems from occurring. In fact, according to Johnson Elite Orthodontics, overbites are the second most common reason why people get braces.

There are many different dental problems that braces can help with. If you have a problem or simply want to improve the appearance and health of your teeth, don’t be afraid to call us today and learn more about our orthodontic treatments.