Braces are an easy and effective way to improve your teeth and give you the perfect smile you have always wanted. But, it’s not just about looks. Good dental health is extremely important for overall wellness, and braces can help with that too. Here are three of the most common reasons why you may need braces. 

Crowding and Spacing Issues

One of the most common reasons why people get braces is because they have crowding or spacing issues in their mouths. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetics, poor nutrition, or even finger-sucking habits in childhood. If left untreated, crowding can get worse over time and lead to more serious oral health issues down the line such as tooth decay and gum disease. If your teeth have gaps or crowding, you may need braces to prevent future dental health issues.

Overbite or Underbite

An overbite or underbite occurs when the upper jaw protrudes out further than the lower jaw. This can cause problems with chewing and speaking as well as more aesthetic concerns like difficulty keeping facial expressions neutral during conversations. Braces are a great way to realign your jaw so that it’s back in its proper place. This can help you with comfort, speech, and dental hygiene.

Speech Impediments

A speech impediment is a disruption in the flow of everyday speech caused by misalignments in the teeth or jawline. Common speech impediments include lisping, stuttering, and mumbling due to incorrect placement of teeth or tongue inside the mouth cavity. Braces can help correct these issues by gently pushing your teeth into their correct positions over time so that they no longer hinder your ability to speak clearly. If you or your child has a speech impediment, make sure that it is not caused by orthodontic issues. 

The decision to get braces isn’t one to be taken lightly but rather one that should be discussed thoroughly with your dentist who will analyze your individual needs and make recommendations based on what’s best for you specifically. Whether you’re looking for improved aesthetics or better oral health care overall, braces are an excellent long-term solution for many orthodontic issues that can have positive effects both now and in the future!  

Are you nervous about attending your first orthodontist appointment? There’s nothing to worry about, read about how your first visit will go at Farley Orthodontics!