Posted on August 10, 2022
An orthodontist is a dentist with additional years of education and training. They specialize in treatments that can correct the position of the teeth and jaw. There are several reasons you may need to see an orthodontist.
Bite issues can be noticeable or barely detectable. The most common bite issues include underbite, overbite, and crossbite. Bite issues are the most common reason for braces right behind aesthetics. Bite problems can invite decay, cause pain in the jaw, and cause headaches. You may need to see an orthodontist if your general dentist has told you that you have a bite issue.
Another reason you may need to see an orthodontist is if your teeth are overcrowded. Teeth that are too close together are prone to decay. That means that overcrowded teeth are more likely to develop cavities and you may be more prone to gum disease. Caring for overcrowded teeth can be difficult, but braces can move the teeth into the proper position and reduce overcrowding.
Misaligned teeth can cause pain in the jaw which can, in turn, result in TMJ, a condition that affects the jawbone. TMJ can be the precursor to painful arthritic conditions in the jaw. If you notice clicking in your jaw when you chew or open your mouth, or you are experiencing pain in your jaw from an unknown source, it may be that your tooth alignment is off. An orthodontist can treat jaw pain and problems.
In some cases, you may need to see this type of dental specialist simply because you want a better smile. Your condition may be as simple as a single tooth that is out of line, but it bothers you enough that you want to treat it. Feeling good about your smile is essential to your overall wellness!
Orthodontic care is available for a wide range of dental problems. Over the last few decades, there have been new treatment options that have been developed that can help anyone at any age correct their teeth and feel good about their smile. Make an appointment today to discuss your treatment options. We would be happy to help!