Many people get braces at some time in their lifetime. Usually, those in their early teens get braces with the idea that they’ll fix their teeth while in high school and then they’ll have a nice-looking smile for the rest of their lives. That said, braces are worn by people of all ages. Sometimes even older folks wear them. After all, there are many reasons people get braces.
Indicators It’s Time to Get Braces
So what are some signs you might need braces? If you experience early, late or irregular loss of your baby teeth, or your adult teeth came in late or delayed, you might need braces. Perhaps you have teeth that meet up with each other in an abnormal way (or not at all) and you wish you could re-position them so they were straighter or more connected. Sometimes people get braces because certain teeth look out of proportion to the rest of their face. When teeth are crowded, misplaced or missing, it might be time for braces.
What about the jaw and a person’s bite? Sometimes people get braces to help correct their overbite or underbite. If their jaw seems to shift (and/or make sounds), they might get braces to correct that issue. An incorrect jaw position can benefit from braces. Those with a disorder of the jaw joint might also get braces to improve that situation.
Finally, for those who constantly find themselves biting the sides of their cheek or hitting the roof of their mouth, it might be smart to consider getting braces. If breathing through the mouth and/or having a hard time chewing is something you’re dealing with, consider getting braces.
Do you want to have a professional opinion regarding whether you “need” braces or not? Make an appointment at Genesee Dental (located in Batavia, New York) by calling 585-343-1113. Braces can make your teeth look more attractive in the long run.