Every person deserves a bright and beautiful smile, but some oral health conditions challenge achieving the desired smile. These conditions include crooked teeth, crowded teeth, overbite, and gaps between teeth. Braces are a standard orthodontic procedure for treating these conditions and restoring your smile.

Braces consist of brackets, wires, and elastic components that apply controlled forces to gradually shift teeth—and, in some cases, influence jaw position—into proper alignment. Many people associate braces with teenagers. However, even adults and children can undergo the treatment procedure. Recognizing whether you are a good candidate for braces helps you seek prompt treatment for your issues. Additionally, it enables you to avoid potential complications of untreated orthodontic problems.

Before fitting your braces, the dentist will thoroughly assess your teeth to ensure the treatment suits your needs. The results of orthodontic treatment can significantly affect your smile's appearance and the overall function of your bite. Therefore, you must seek expert dental services.

Signs That You Need Braces

Different individuals need braces for varying reasons. However, these signs could indicate that braces are suitable for your oral health conditions:

Overbite and Underbite

Having an overbite or underbite may be an indication that you need braces. Overbite occurs when the teeth of your upper jaw overlap those of the lower jaw. An underbite, on the other hand, occurs when the lower teeth overlap the upper ones.

A slight overbite or underbite is essential for the normal function of your teeth. However, if the teeth overlap by more than four millimeters, it can cause tooth erosion, jaw pain, and other dental issues. These factors cause overbite and underbite:

  • Teeth grinding
  • Nail-biting
  • Tongue thrusting

When left untreated, an overbite or underbite can cause complications like:

  • Severe jaw pain
  • Headaches
  • Damage to tooth enamel

If you have symptoms of an overbite or underbite, your dentist can recommend braces. Braces pull your teeth into the proper position for better alignment.

For overbites, braces help move the upper teeth back and the lower teeth forward. In many underbite cases, braces can improve the alignment of the lower teeth. However, correcting the jaw relationship may also require additional orthodontic appliances or surgical procedures. Treatment duration for overbite or underbite can range from 18 months to 3 years, depending on the severity of the condition.

Temporomandibular Joint Disorders

Temporomandibular joint disorders (TMD) affect the jaw joint and its surrounding ligaments. You have two temporomandibular joints. The TMJs connect the lower jawbone to your skull and help with chewing and speaking movements. The following are some causes of temporomandibular joint disorders:

  • Jaw injury
  • Poor posture
  • Teeth grinding or clenching
  • Arthritis
  • Misalignment of teeth or jaw
  • Habits like excessive chewing gum

You may have a temporomandibular joint disorder if you experience the following symptoms:

  • Jaw pain or tenderness
  • Clicking or popping sound when opening or closing the mouth
  • Headache
  • Earaches
  • Facial swelling
  • Limited jaw movement

If you experience these TMJ symptoms—and your dentist identifies malocclusion as a contributing factor—orthodontic treatment (often in combination with other therapies) may be recommended. Before fitting the braces, your dentist may order a jaw X-ray to determine the level of damage to the bone. Braces help align teeth and jaws and can alleviate the pain and discomfort caused by TMJ.

Braces work by gradually shifting the teeth into a better position. However, they are part of a comprehensive treatment plan for these jaw disorders. Other aspects of the plan include physical therapy and medications.

You Have a Cross Bite

Cross Bite occurs when your teeth do not meet when you close your mouth. A crossbite is common in children and does not resolve without treatment. Common causes of crossbite include:

  • Genetics
  • Thumb-sucking
  • Early loss of baby teeth
  • Abnormal jaw development.
  • Poor habits like prolonged pacifier use

Symptoms of a crossbite can include:

  • Difficulty chewing
  • Jaw pain,
  • Tooth wear
  • Gum disease
  • Speech difficulties
  • Discomfort in the jaw or teeth
  • Uneven facial asymmetry

When left untreated, a crossbite can lead to complications such as gum disease, tooth wear, and altered bite dynamics:

  • Gum disease. Uneven pressure on the teeth can make oral hygiene challenging. Poor oral hygiene allows bacteria to accumulate, which could cause gum disease.
  • Tooth loss. A persistent crossbite can weaken the teeth and cause premature loss. Early intervention is necessary to avoid these complications.
  • Jaw pain. Abnormal bite forces can strain the jaw muscles, causing temporomandibular joint (TMJ) issues.
  • Speech problems. Teeth misalignment can affect your pronunciation of words and overall speech.
  • Enamel damage. Misalignment of your teeth can cause uneven pressure on the enamel, leading to fractures.

You may need braces if you have a crossbite. Braces correct this condition by shifting your teeth and jaws into the correct positions. Braces exert gentle, continuous pressure on the teeth, moving them into the proper position over time.

Dentists sometimes use additional appliances like expanders to widen the upper jaw. With consistent wear, braces can improve the function and appearance of the teeth and jaw. Early intervention with braces is necessary to avoid long-term dental and facial issues.

Popping or Clicking Noises from Your Jaw

If you notice popping or clicking when you open or close your mouth, your jaw may not be properly aligned. These sounds are related to issues in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), which connects your jaw to your skull. The noise arises from the dysfunction of the TMJ.

Misalignment of your teeth can cause the jaw to move incorrectly and produce clicking sounds. These noises do not cause pain. However, they could signal a more serious problem. In addition to the popping sounds, a misaligned jaw and teeth can cause discomfort during everyday activities. As your jaw adjusts to the misalignment, you can experience:

  • Muscle pain
  • Discomfort when speaking or chewing
  • Severe headaches.

If left untreated, these issues might cause further damage to the TMJ and make treatment more difficult. Braces are an effective way to address the popping and clicking of the jaw. The treatment helps:

  • Align your teeth properly.
  • Improve jaw asymmetry
  • Reduce friction and clicking noises.
  • Enhance jaw function
  • Prevent more severe TMJ disorders

Significant Gaps Between Teeth

Some people have noticeable gaps between their teeth, especially in the front of the mouth. Small gaps between teeth may not cause significant issues. However, larger gaps can affect the appearance and function of the smile.

Gaps between teeth can make it more difficult to chew food properly. Additionally, they can cause a person to feel self-conscious about their appearance when smiling or speaking. Various factors could cause significant gaps between your teeth. They include:

  • Genetics. Genetics are a significant contributing factor to the development of a diastema. For some individuals, a diastema only persists in childhood and resolves as adult teeth develop.
  • Missing teeth. When you have missing teeth, the jawbone begins to deteriorate. A weakened jawbone can cause the teeth to shift and move further away from each other, causing extensive gaps.
  • Gum disease. Untreated tooth decay or poor oral health can result in gum disease, which causes receding gums and shifting teeth.
  • Tooth development problems. Some dental issues or childhood habits can cause poor tooth development. The developmental problems create abnormal gaps between teeth alongside other dental complications.

When there are gaps between teeth, food particles are more likely to lodge in these spaces. The food particles can lead to plaque buildup and an increased risk of cavities.

Dentists recommend braces to close the gaps by shifting the teeth into a more appropriate position. By eliminating these gaps, braces can help improve your smile’s function and aesthetics.

Jaw Pain and Headaches

Jaw pain, muscle soreness, and headaches are common symptoms of a misaligned bite. When your teeth and jaw are not aligned properly, the muscles responsible for chewing and speaking could strain. This could cause tension and discomfort. Muscle strain can cause jaw, neck, and shoulder pain, resulting in frequent headaches.

People with misaligned bites may sometimes experience temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders. TMJs are associated with grinding your teeth or clenching your jaw, which can worsen the discomfort. Braces can help realign the teeth and jaw. The treatment relieves pressure on the muscles and reduces the intensity of headaches and jaw pain. Proper alignment also prevents long-term jaw problems that can lead to more severe pain.

Difficulty Brushing or Flossing Between Crooked Teeth

Oral hygiene is a significant part of oral health. You must brush and floss your teeth regularly to remove food particles. During regular dental visits, your dentist may give tips on proper hygiene practices. However, your oral health conditions may make it challenging to follow them.

Difficulty brushing or flossing between crooked teeth indicates that you may need braces. Misaligned or crowded teeth create tight spaces that are hard to reach with a toothbrush or floss. Failure to clean these areas can lead to plaque and food particles buildup. Over time, bacteria can accumulate, causing gum disease and cavities.

Crooked teeth also create uneven surfaces that prevent effective cleaning, which makes it easier for bacteria to thrive. You may have poorly aligned teeth if you experience constant difficulty brushing or flossing. After assessing your teeth and oral health, your dentist can recommend braces to correct the misalignment.

Crooked Teeth

Crooked teeth are teeth that are misaligned, either overlapping or not in the correct position within the mouth. The condition can affect both the upper and lower teeth. Common causes of crooked teeth include:

  • Genetics. Inherited traits can lead to misaligned teeth.
  • Thumb sucking. Prolonged thumb sucking can affect tooth alignment.
  • Early loss of baby teeth. Losing teeth too early can result in overcrowding.
  • Jaw size. An improperly sized jaw can cause teeth misalignment.
  • Injury: Trauma to the mouth can shift teeth out of place.

Having crooked teeth may be an indication that you need braces. The most noticeable symptom of crooked teeth is misalignment. Other symptoms may include:

  • Difficulty in chewing
  • Biting problems
  • Difficulty speaking clearly
  • Discomfort or pain in the jaw

If left untreated, crooked teeth can lead to several complications, including tooth decay and gum disease. The condition can also cause abnormal wear on teeth, jaw pain, and headaches. Crooked teeth may also lead to self-esteem issues due to concerns about appearance.

Braces are the most common treatment for crooked teeth. They work by shifting teeth into their proper positions over time. Braces use a combination of brackets, wires, and rubber bands to apply controlled pressure to the teeth.

The treatment improves the appearance of your teeth and helps prevent future dental complications. Depending on the severity, braces can take many months to a few years to achieve optimal results.

Early Loss of Baby Teeth

Children who experience early tooth loss could develop dental issues like crooked adult teeth. Early tooth loss disrupts the natural timing of adult tooth eruption.

Additionally, early loss of baby teeth can sometimes interfere with jaw and mouth development. It makes it harder for permanent teeth to grow correctly. If your child loses their baby teeth prematurely, they may need braces.

Braces can realign the teeth that have shifted due to early tooth loss. Sometimes, a space maintainer can keep the gap open for the permanent tooth by preventing other teeth from moving into the space.

Thumb Sucking

Thumb sucking in children can be a sign that they may need braces. Young children suck their thumbs for comfort. However, the habit should not continue beyond three or four years. Prolonged thumb sucking can affect the alignment of teeth by causing:

  • Overbite
  • Open bite
  • Crooked teeth

The pressure from the thumb can also push the front teeth outward, causing misalignment. Additionally, it may alter the development of the jaw. If thumb sucking continues, it can contribute to the need for orthodontic treatment like braces.

Braces shift teeth into their proper positions, correcting these misalignments. A child’s treatment plan may incorporate thumb guards to discourage this behavior. Over time, combining braces and these devices can help restore proper dental alignment.

Crowded Teeth

You develop crowded teeth when there is not enough space in the mouth for teeth to align correctly. Factors that could contribute to overcrowding of teeth include:

  • Genetics
  • Thumb sucking
  • Early loss of baby teeth
  • Jaw abnormalities
  • Prolonged use of a pacifier for children

The primary symptom of crowded teeth is visibly overlapping or crooked teeth. Other symptoms can include difficulty brushing or flossing and discomfort when chewing. You are a good candidate for braces if you have crowded teeth. Braces apply pressure to your teeth and move them into better alignment.

Braces also create more space in the mouth, which makes teeth straighter. Treatment with braces improves the appearance of the smile. Additionally, it enhances oral health by making it easier to clean teeth properly.

Mouth Breathing

Mouth breathing is the habitual inhaling and exhaling with the mouth instead of the nose. The condition is common in children and causes various dental and health problems. Mouth breathing is characterized by:

  • Snoring. Children who breathe through the mouth could snore due to airway obstruction during sleep.
  • Dry mouth. Mouth breathing leads to a dry mouth, which can cause bad breath and increase the risk of tooth decay.

When left untreated, mouth breathing can result in the following complications:

  • Dental problems. Mouth breathing reduces saliva production, which helps protect teeth from decay. Therefore, prolonged mouth breathing can contribute to gum disease and increased cavities.
  • Jaw development issues. Chronic mouth breathing can affect the development of the face and jaw. It may lead to a narrow, elongated face and improper teeth and jaw alignment. You can develop an overbite, underbite, or open bite due to untreated mouth breathing.
  • Difficulty speaking. Children who breathe through their mouths may develop speech issues. Mouth breathing can interfere with proper tongue placement, which can cause trouble pronouncing certain sounds.
  • Sleep disturbances. Mouth breathing can cause sleep apnea or snoring, disrupting a child’s sleep cycle. Poor-quality sleep can cause daytime fatigue, irritability, and difficulty concentrating at school.
  • Chronic respiratory issues. Chronic mouth breathing can increase the risk of developing colds or sinus infections. The nose filters dust and bacteria from the air. When children breathe through their mouths, they lose this natural defense.

Mouth breathing may be an indication that your child needs braces. Braces can improve airflow and encourage proper breathing by correcting teeth and jaw misalignment. If the child has an overbite, underbite, or crooked teeth, braces realign the teeth. Braces make it easier for the child to close their mouth and breathe through their nose.

Additionally, braces can work alongside other treatments to help reduce nasal blockages. Early intervention for mouth breathing can prevent more serious long-term effects, like speech difficulties.

Find a Competent Dentist Near Me

Your dentist can recommend braces to realign your teeth and improve oral health. Several signs suggest a need for braces in children, adults, and teenagers. These signs vary depending on age, dental habits, and specific issues.

They include crooked teeth, overbite, protruding teeth, and significant gaps between them. Being alert to these signs ensures that you obtain prompt orthodontic evaluation and treatment, enhancing your smile and overall confidence. If you experience these signs, you must consult your dentist for a thorough assessment. Given your condition, the dentist will determine whether braces are the right option.

Braces take a while to deliver the desired teeth alignment and perfect smile. You have a better chance at a favorable outcome by seeking expert dental care and following the dentist’s instructions. At South Coast Dentistry, we offer reliable dental services for our clients in Aliso Viejo, CA. Call us at 949-274-9086 today to schedule an appointment.