Do I Need Orthodontics?
When some people hear the word orthodontics, they sometimes automatically think of cosmetic procedures. While orthodontics is often used for a straighter and more beautiful smile, it’s primary motivation is medical. Often when it is recommended, there is an issue with your teeth that could lead to oral health complications down the line. Today, we’re outlining some of the cases where orthodontics would be used for medical reasons.
Malocclusions
Malocclusions, also known as “bad bites”, occur when you have when you have various issues with your bite. This means your teeth or jaw could be misaligned in a way that causes issues for brushing, flossing, chewing, and even talking. There are a few different common malocclusions:
Overbite
An overbite is when your top row of teeth stick out further than the bottom row. Having an overbite is actually extremely common, and is actually how we envision a perfect smile. Most people have their top teeth overlap their bottom teeth slightly. The medical issue arises when your front teeth stick out significantly. Your front teeth can be very vulnerable to trauma with a severe overbite, and chewing can be more difficult.
Underbite
An underbite is the opposite of an overbite. Your bottom teeth stick out further than your top row. An underbite can make chewing and biting fairly difficult.
Crossbite
Crossbite is when a pair of teeth, one on top and one on bottom, don’t connect properly. That is one tooth is too close to the cheek, and one goes the other way. When teeth aren’t meeting properly, wear of the teeth and gums is more severe.
Openbite
Openbite occurs when your front teeth aren’t touching, also called gaps. Openbite can contribute to tongue thrust, which pushes teeth forward, and trouble chewing.
Crowding
Crowding is the most common reason people get orthodontics. This is when teeth are misaligned and there is a lack of room for the existing teeth. Crowding can cause a whole host of oral health issues, mainly making areas of the mouth very hard to clean. Being unable to properly brush and floss will inevitably cause cavities and tooth decay. Braces or other orthodontic devices can properly align crowding, allowing proper space for each tooth.
Contact Your Orthodontics Expert at Lynn Dental Care
Lynn Dental Care provides comprehensive orthodontic services for children and adults. Braces and Invisalign are the most common forms of orthodontics, and Lynn Dental Care specializes in both. Whether you need a periodontist, orthodontist, or dentist, Lynn Dental Care is here for you. Contact Lynn Dental Care today to set up an appointment or view our website for more information.
