5 Tops Signs That You Need to Get
Braces for Your Teeth
Did you know that 18% of adults think they're striking out during job interviews because of a crooked smile? If you're worried that poor dental health is holding you back, it might be time to look into getting braces. You'll gain the confident and healthy smile you need for success.
How do you know if you need braces? Keep reading to find out the top 5 signs!
1. Do You Have a Crooked Smile?
When you smile for photos, do you avoid showing your teeth? When you feel self-conscious about your smile, turn to a dental professional for help. Braces can help close gaps or straighten teeth.
An orthodontist can create a treatment plan that looks discrete using invisible aligners. Or they'll help you find the fastest path using more traditional metal brackets. In either case, you'll feel more confident flashing a straighter smile at your next job interview!
2. You Have an Overbite or Underbite
Are you wondering, "Do I need braces?" If your top teeth stick out beyond your bottom teeth, you have an overbite. Left untreated, you risk fracturing your front teeth.
An underbite functions in the opposite way. Chewing food may feel difficult, and you may notice that your jaw looks recessed.
The best type of braces will vary by person. While invisible aligners can treat milder overbites and crooked teeth, metal brackets may be better for more severe overbites.
3. Is Your Jaw Tired?
A jaw that clicks or cracks can be another one of the signs you need braces. This is particularly true if you hear cracking first thing in the morning. Jaw asymmetries can make chewing food feel tiring — and sometimes the cracking can hurt.
More severe issues may require headgear or surgery. Your best bet is to consult with an orthodontist to ensure that braces offer the right solution!
4. Flossing Is Challenging
Moving floss between your teeth shouldn't be a painful part of your oral hygiene routine. But if you're struggling to finesse the floss, you could need braces. Teeth that are crooked or crowded may benefit from straightening.
Crowding gets more pronounced as you age, so try to treat it early. While teeth may shift over time, you can limit the shifting after getting braces removed. Wear a retainer as instructed by your orthodontist.
5. You Bite Your Tongue
If you're biting your tongue, it's time to pursue getting braces. This can happen when you're speaking or chewing food. You could even notice that you're slurring your speech or speaking with a lisp.
Likewise, you may notice that you're biting the insides of your cheeks. Your tongue could be causing problems because you have an underbite, overbite, or crossbite. These issues cause your tongue to get in the way of your teeth.
How Do You Know If You Need Braces?
Braces can help you straighten your smile and ward off future dental health issues. How do you know if you need braces? Check for jaw or tongue pain, and pay attention to your mouth when flossing.
Get more advice about braces and other health issues. Check back soon for new articles!
