Do you have bite or teeth alignment issues? If so, you may need to visit an Orthodontist in Irving, TX. Early intervention is important for a lot of dental issues. Addressing orthodontic issues can lead to a healthier smile and improve your oral health. But how do you know it’s time to visit an orthodontist? The following oral health conditions warrant an orthodontic appointment:
Teeth Crowding and Misalignment
If you have crowded or misaligned teeth, consider visiting an orthodontist in Irving. Overlapping, twisting, or crowding teeth can make cleaning hard. Also, crowded teeth increase your risk of plaque development, resulting in cavities and gum disease. A reliable orthodontist can offer solutions such as dental braces to correct such issues and prevent long-term oral health damage.
Difficulty Biting or Chewing
Whether you experience discomfort whenever you bite down or have a problem chewing food properly, you may have a misaligned bite. A crossbite, underbite, or overbite can cause dental wear and tear. Visit an orthodontist to get a thorough evaluation. Orthodontic treatments can improve your bite and eliminate the discomfort you experience when eating.
Speech Difficulties
Speech issues such as slurring some sounds or lisping may occur due to dental problems. Misaligned jaw or teeth can impact how you pronounce words. An orthodontist may be able to correct speech difficulties due to an orthodontic issue by recommending dental braces. Aside from aligning teeth, braces improve speech clarity.
Jaw Discomfort or Pain
TMJ disorder or a bite issue can cause jaw pain. A misaligned jaw can result in serious discomfort, clicking sounds upon mouth movement, and headaches. If your jaw pain persists, schedule an appointment with an orthodontist in Irving. The professional can determine the cause of the problem and offer a treatment plan to alleviate your pain and correct the alignment problem.
Mouth Breathing
Chronic mouth breathing can result from structural issues in the mouth such as misaligned jaws and narrow arches. Such a condition can result in dry mouth, sleep disturbances, or bad breath. An orthodontist can check up your oral structure to know if you need orthodontic intervention.
Teeth Gaps
Gaps between your teeth are not only a cosmetic problem. They can result in food getting stuck between your teeth, which leads to the buildup of plaque and increases your risk of dental cavities. An orthodontic can use dental braces or other orthodontic treatments to close the gaps and give you a more uniform smile.
Teeth Grinding or Clenching
Bruxism can cause teeth and jaw damage over time. A lot of people do not know they grind their teeth while asleep. However, symptoms such as worn tooth surfaces, jaw soreness, and tooth sensitivity can be red flags. Visiting an orthodontist lets you choose a solution like braces or a bite guard to adjust your bite and minimize grinding. 
Facial Shape Changes
The structure of your teeth and jaw can impact your overall facial shape. A bad bite or teeth misalignment can lead to subtle or obvious changes to how you look. If your face or jawline has changed because of shifting teeth, see an orthodontist as soon as possible. Proper alignment can improve your facial aesthetics and oral health.
Protruding Teeth
This condition can increase your risk of mouth injury, particularly during physical activities or sports. Also, concerns about aesthetics can affect self-confidence. Orthodontic treatments such as dental braces can reposition protruding teeth. This can create a more balanced bite. But there are other orthodontic options to explore to protect and enhance your smile.
Difficulty Brushing or Flossing Your Teeth
If brushing and flossing your teeth has been hard, you may have misaligned or crowded teeth. Proper oral hygiene is necessary to prevent issues like cavities and gum disease. An orthodontist can assess your teeth and recommend an appropriate treatment.
