The American Association of Orthodontics recently reported that 65% of adults do not have well-aligned front teeth with 4 million people in the United States having braces or needing them. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, CDC, one in four adults in the US currently has a cavity. Cavities can be caused by many factors, including teeth that are not straight enough to promote proper cleaning. Traditional braces and clear aligners are the most common way to straighten teeth. While 75% of treated patients have braces, 25% opt for clear aligners, like Invisalign.
Invisalign trays are available through orthodontics in Encino.
Do I Need Braces?
Understanding when to seek orthodontic treatment can be crucial for maintaining not just a confident smile, but also good oral health. Here are some signs that may indicate the need for orthodontic attention:
- Crowded or Overlapping Teeth
Difficulty in brushing and flossing due to tightly packed teeth could suggest a need for orthodontic care. Crowded teeth solutions usually involve braces or clear aligners but can sometimes be corrected by a retainer.
- Gaps Between Teeth
Significant spaces between teeth can affect bite and oral hygiene. Braces, trays, or a retaining device through orthodontics in Encino are the typical treatment for gap teeth straightening.
- Overbite, Underbite, or Crossbite
Misalignment of the jaws can lead to uneven wear on teeth, difficulty in chewing, or jaw pain.
- Jaw Pain or TMJ Disorders
Persistent pain in the jaw or clicking and popping noises when opening and closing your mouth might be linked to misalignment issues.
- Early, Late, or Irregular Loss of Baby Teeth
The timing and pattern of losing baby teeth may affect the alignment of permanent teeth.
- Difficulty Chewing or Biting
Problems with efficiently cutting and grinding food can be a sign that teeth are not aligning properly.
- Mouth Breathing
Frequent mouth breathing can be associated with an abnormal bite, which might require orthodontic intervention.
- Speech Difficulties
Misaligned teeth can impact speech patterns and the clarity of speech.
- Protruding Teeth
Teeth that stick out can be at a higher risk for trauma and may indicate the need for braces or other corrective measures.
- Shifting of the Jaw When Biting
If your jaw shifts position or makes sounds when you bite down, this could indicate a misaligned bite that orthodontics can correct.
- Changes in Facial Structure
An imbalance in facial appearance, or the feeling that your facial features are not aligned, may be related to dental or jaw alignment issues.
- Teeth Grinding (Bruxism)
Frequent grinding or clenching of teeth can be a response to an uncomfortable bite and may lead to further dental issues.
- Lack of Confidence in Smile
Feeling self-conscious about your teeth can impact your quality of life and is a common reason people seek orthodontic care.
What’s the Best Age to Start Orthodontic Treatment?
The best age to start orthodontic treatment is best left up to your orthodontic in Encino. Some children with issues like with underbite orthodontic indicators or severe overbite issues may need to start earlier than those with slight misaligned jaw symptoms or other issues that are not as drastic. Your professionals at orthodontics in Encino can inform you if he or she suspects signs for orthodontic treatment.
Can Adults Benefit from Orthodontics?
Children, adolescents, and adults can benefit from orthodontics. If you’re experiencing one or more of these issues, it’s advisable to consult with an orthodontist. They can provide a professional assessment and discuss potential treatment options, ranging from traditional braces to clear aligner systems like Invisalign, depending on the specific needs of your teeth and jaw alignment. The benefits of straight teeth are many. An orthodontist will work with you to create a tailored treatment plan to achieve both aesthetic goals and functional improvements in your bite, ensuring a healthier, more comfortable, and aesthetically pleasing outcome.
Best Orthodontics in Encino: CaliSmile Orthodontics
Are you looking for an “orthodontist near me“? If so and you live in or around Encino, look no further than CaliSmile Orthodontics. You’ll find professionals who are experts at customizing and fitting Invisalign and are proficient at other teeth straightening treatments as well. Affordable and friendly, you can trust CaliSmile Orthodontics to transform your smile. Call today for a comprehensive consultation – (310) 710-6527.
