You may need braces if you have crooked or crowded teeth, difficulty chewing, gaps between teeth, an overbite or underbite, or jaw pain. Other signs include frequent mouth-breathing, biting your tongue often, or difficulty flossing between teeth. Consult an orthodontist for a full evaluation.
Braces aren’t just for kids anymore — more and more adults are jumping in to straighten their teeth and boost their smiles! From misaligned bites to crowded teeth, taking care of these issues can do wonders for your health, comfort, and confidence.
If you’ve ever felt self-conscious about your smile or had trouble chewing comfortably, you’re not alone. At SmileWorks, we’ve seen firsthand how braces can be life-changing, offering everything from classic braces to Invisalign and partnering with you every step of the way for a smooth, confidence-boosting journey.
Common Signs You May Need Braces
Maybe you’ve noticed noticeable gaps between your top and bottom teeth, or perhaps your jaw clicks when you eat. Braces can address a wide range of orthodontic conditions, but it’s not always easy to recognize when they’re needed. Here are some signs that could indicate it’s time to consult an orthodontist:
Crooked or Crowded Teeth
If your teeth overlap, appear crowded, or don’t line up properly, it’s a strong sign that braces might be a good option. Crowded teeth—whether baby or adult—make it hard to clean effectively, which can lead to plaque buildup, tooth decay, and even gum recession, not to mention the impact on your confidence and willingness to smile.
Spacing Issues
If you notice large gaps between your teeth or uneven spacing, braces can help close these gaps and properly align your teeth. Gaps, especially between the upper front teeth or bottom teeth, can expose gums, increasing the risk of infection. Closing these gaps can also prevent future problems with gum recession.
Difficulty Biting or Chewing
Problems with biting or chewing, such as frequently biting your lower opposing tooth, could signal that your teeth aren’t aligning correctly. Bite issues, like a deep bite or misaligned bites, can be corrected with braces to ensure more comfortable eating and speaking and reduce the risk of bad breath from improper chewing and digestion.
Jaw Pain or Clicking Sounds
If you experience discomfort or hear clicking sounds in your jaw when you open or close your mouth, you may have a bite misalignment or asymmetric jaw growth. Left untreated, this could lead to more serious issues such as temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder. Braces can relieve pressure on the jaw and reduce associated pain.
How Bad Do Your Teeth Have to Be to Get Braces?
You may need braces if your teeth are visibly crooked, crowded, have large gaps, or if you experience issues like difficulty biting, chewing, or cleaning your teeth. Severe misalignments, such as overbites or underbites, also require braces for both functional and aesthetic reasons.
Types of Bite Issues That Braces Can Correct
Braces can correct more than just crooked teeth. The following bite issues are often best addressed with orthodontic treatment:
- Overbite: An overbite occurs when your upper teeth extend too far over your lower teeth. This can lead to increased wear and tear on the bottom teeth, jaw discomfort, and difficulty speaking or eating.
- Underbite: An underbite, where the lower teeth extend beyond the upper teeth, can make chewing difficult, causing strain on the jaw and discomfort.
- Crossbite: A crossbite occurs when the upper and lower teeth don’t align. This misalignment can increase the risk of gum disease and contribute to jaw pain over time.
- Open bite: An open bite occurs when the upper and lower teeth don’t touch when the mouth is closed. This can make it hard to bite into food and may cause speech issues.
Addressing these bite issues with braces as early as possible can help prevent more severe complications and improve overall dental health.
Health Benefits of Getting Braces
Orthodontic issues often become more pronounced as children grow, but adults can also benefit from orthodontic treatment to improve oral health and avoid problems like gum recession or difficulty with certain sounds. If you didn’t wear braces as a child, it’s never too late to address these issues as an adult. Seeking treatment can reduce the risk of conditions such as gum disease, prevent tooth decay, and help achieve a straight, healthy smile.
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it may be time to consult with an orthodontist. Early detection and treatment can make a substantial difference—not only for your smile but for your overall health. At SmileWorks, we’re here to guide you toward better oral health, making sure you’re comfortable and confident throughout the process.
Why You Should Choose SmileWorks for Braces
At SmileWorks, we don’t just straighten your teeth; we aim to improve your overall dental health and confidence. Our comprehensive range of orthodontic appliances includes traditional braces and Invisalign, offering a personalized approach to meet your lifestyle and goals. Our experienced team is dedicated to providing effective and comfortable treatment, from the initial consultation to the day your braces come off.
Whether you’re facing crowded teeth, an asymmetric jaw growth, or want to enhance your smile for cosmetic reasons, our team at SmileWorks is here every step of the way. Call us today at (646) 722-1177 or fill out our contact form to schedule your appointment and take the first step toward a confident smile and better oral health.
