Many people consult an orthodontist specialist for a variety of reasons. The most common reason for adults is usually related to aesthetics. In reality, there are other important reasons to visit an orthodontist, reasons applicable to adults and especially young patients. Most dental health professionals recommend that children between the ages of 6-12 begin consultations for preventive measures and an easier treatment process, but even for adults it is never too late to start treatment or fix a problem. In some cases, patients are not aware of dental health problems that they currently, or may possibly, have and so a visit to an orthodontist should be a priority especially when they are referred by their dentist.
Of the many reasons to see an orthodontist, here are the top 10:
- Timely screening for children. A lot of dental problems can be avoided with a treatment plan administered in the right way at the right time. Timing the process with their normal dental growth development makes it easier and helps to avoid several problems before they begin.
- Correct abnormal bite. A patient has a normal bite when the upper teeth overlap the lower teeth approximately by 1-2 mm. When it overlaps more, whether in a vertical or horizontal pattern, or when the lower teeth overlap the upper teeth instead, it is considered an abnormal structure which needs to be corrected. Aside from causing an improper bite, it can be the cause of other dental problems.
- Adjust crowding or spacing. Some people have teeth that crowd too close together or have uneven spaces in between. Aside from a more pleasing look, fixing the problem can greatly benefit patients because the teeth can be better taken care of and gum problems can be avoided.
- Avoid or correct protruded teeth. Younger patients can avoid protruded teeth when their orthodontic treatment is begun at the right time of development. For mature patients, the protrusion can be corrected and can make for better aligned, and a more appealing, smile.
- Break bad habits. Orthodontists can recommend orthodontic appliances that can help stop unpleasant habits that can cause dental problems. Thumb sucking, grinding, tongue thrusting and other detrimental practices can be broken to avoid more dental problems that may develop.
- Avoid or fix speech impediments. An abnormal teeth structure can also cause lisps and other speech impediments. Orthodontics can help fix or avoid this problem.
- Make for normal chewing and eating. While normal chewing and eating can be easy for some people, it can be a challenge for those with improperly aligned teeth or with abnormal structure. In many cases it can be painful, too. With the right bite effectively treated with orthodontic appliances chewing and eating can become easy.
- Prevent gum disease and tooth decay. A lot of tooth and gum problems are caused by misaligned teeth. Usually the problems are aggravated because the teeth and gums cannot be reached and cleaned properly and the way the teeth come in contact with each other. If they are fixed by an orthodontist, a lot of problems can be prevented and dental care and maintenance can also be made easier.
- Correct teeth and facial structure. Improper bites, crowding, spacing and other deformities can affect not only the structure of the mouth but the face as well. Some problems can be fixed by regular orthodontic treatment and others by a specialist.
- An attractive smile. The most obvious and sought after reason for orthodontics is for a great smile. Though it can be considered a physical benefit many patients can attest that it can provide an emotional and psychological benefit as well. With a great smile comes better self-confidence and a sense of well-being.
