One of the first questions many of our patients ask is: Am I a candidate for orthodontic treatment like braces or Invisalign?
The simple answer — without examining your mouth — is probably yes.
According to orthodontic studies, roughly 70 percent of the American population could benefit from orthodontic treatment, and one third of school-aged children need similar care. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that every child between the age of seven and eight have an orthodontic screening.
Here is a quick checklist of orthodontic conditions that may be cause for concern, regardless of your age:
- Crooked Teeth – Often straining the jaw, crooked teeth interfere with chewing, while making it difficult to maintain proper oral hygiene.
- Crossbite – A malocclusion (or “bad bite”) in which a tooth is closer to the cheek or tongue than the same tooth in the opposing arch.
- Crowded Teeth – When there are more teeth than the jaw can accommodate, causing an abnormal bite and facial appearance.
- Gap Teeth – Also called diastema, a gap between two teeth occurs when the size of the teeth and jaw are disproportionate.
- Overbite – When the upper teeth overlap the bottom.
- Underbite – When the lower teeth project beyond the upper.
- Rotated Teeth – When a tooth is turned on its long axis, often causing food impaction and decay.
These common orthodontic conditions cause a number of bothersome symptoms, including an altered appearance, frequent biting of the cheek or tongue, painful chewing or biting, speech problems, tooth decay and breathing through the mouth.
There are several treatment options available to our patients, including braces, Invisalign, tooth extractions and even minor surgery to correct the jaw.
Could you or a family member benefit from orthodontic treatment? Don’t spend another day uncomfortable with your appearance or the alignment of your teeth. Call (972) 473-8880 or contact us online to schedule a consultation today.
