Patient at dentist office have teeth checkup dental tools

Signs You May Be in Need of Orthodontic Treatment

Posted on March 25, 2022

Are you having trouble with your teeth? Do they seem to be crooked or not lining up correctly? If so, you may require orthodontic treatment. Orthodontics is the branch of dentistry specializing in diagnosing and treating dental and facial irregularities. Below are some signs that you may need to see an orthodontist.

1. Regular Headaches

Several different things can cause headaches, but one possible cause is teeth that are not aligned correctly. When your teeth are not in alignment, it can strain the muscles in your jaw, which can lead to headaches. If you are regularly experiencing headaches, you may need to visit an orthodontist.

2. Jaw Pain

Are you experiencing pain in your jaw? When your teeth are not aligned, it puts a strain on the muscles and joints in your jaw, causing discomfort. You may suffer from jaw discomfort regularly if this is the case. If you frequently experience jaw pain, you may need to visit an orthodontist.

Jaw pain can also be caused by TMJ, which is a condition that affects the joints in your jaw. If you think you may have TMJ, it is important to see an orthodontist or other medical professional diagnose and treat the condition properly.

3. Difficulty Chewing or Biting

Have you been having difficulty chewing or biting your food? This can be another sign that your teeth are not in alignment. This issue can make it difficult to chew or bite and can lead to problems with digestion. If you’re having trouble chewing or biting, it’s critical to seek the assistance of an orthodontist.

4. Mouth Sores

According to Humana, adults can anticipate wearing braces for three to four years, while children may endure them for two years. If you develop sores on the inside of your mouth, and you are currently wearing braces, your braces are likely irritating your gums or cheeks. These sores can make eating and talking very uncomfortable. If you experience mouth sores, be sure to consult with your orthodontist so they can properly adjust your braces.

5. Speech Impediment

Do you have a lisp or speak with a slur? This can be yet another sign that you need to see an orthodontist. When your teeth are not aligned, it can impede your speech and make it difficult to enunciate certain words correctly. An orthodontist can help correct this problem so that you can speak clearly and without impediment.

If you are experiencing any of the symptoms listed above, you may want to consider visiting an orthodontist so they can diagnose and treat the problem. Orthodontic treatment can help to improve your oral health and quality of life. For more information about orthodontics, contact us today.