26 Aug Do I Need Braces? Key Signs That You Need Orthodontics

Braces are about more than crooked teeth. Misaligned teeth can affect how your mouth moves, which can impact your ability to perform vital tasks like eating and breathing. If you’re on the fence about braces, it helps to know that straight teeth are only the beginning of how they can help you.

Our team of dental professionals is your best source of information to decide if you need braces. Even though people usually get braces when they’re kids, adults can get them, too! Signs you need adult braces can include bite issues, crowded or crooked teeth, and difficulty chewing food. 

Signs that children may need braces include losing their baby teeth early or late, thumb sucking past the age of 2, and mouth breathing. Alternatives to braces like veneers and invisible braces are alternatives for mild orthodontic issues.

Signs You Need Adult Braces

As adult braces become more common, you may wonder whether you need them or not. After all, braces are about more than having straight teeth — they can also fix serious orthodontic problems that affect speaking, breathing, and chewing food. While these signs may point to a need for braces, you should still consult our team before pursuing orthodontics.

You may need braces if you experience:

• Bad bites such as an open bite
• Crowded or crooked teeth
• An incorrect jaw position
• Difficulty chewing food
• Extra or missing teeth

These are just a few of the signs that you may require braces. You may experience only one or a combination of symptoms, so it’s important to seek a professional opinion to learn if you should wear braces.

Contact us today to learn if you could benefit from braces!

Signs Your Child Needs Braces

Most people start orthodontic treatment between 8 and 14 when baby teeth are being replaced by permanent teeth. It can be hard to tell if your child needs braces on your own, which is why regularly scheduled dental appointments are so important. Your child’s regular cleanings and checkups help us keep track of their development and spot any issues that may arise.

Other signs your child may need braces include:

• Losing their baby teeth early or late
• Thumb sucking past the age of 2
• Mouth breathing
• Clicking or other sounds from the jaw

All of these can point to your child needing braces. However, you should bring them in for a consultation to get a professional opinion. We can help assess your child’s oral health to determine if metal braces are necessary, or if there are other options that can help.

There are a variety of reasons that can cause your child to need braces. These can range from genetics to poor nutrition or poor dental hygiene. While genetic issues are harder to prevent, you can start taking steps today to protect your child’s dental hygiene.

Children’s Dental Hygiene

Equipping your child with good dental hygiene habits is one of the best things you can do for them. These habits will give them the tools they need to protect their adult teeth for a lifetime. To get started, check out our blog Free Resources to Teach Your Kids About The Dentist!

This blog post is packed with valuable information to prepare your child for the dentist and to brush and floss like a big kid. You’ll learn about:

• Books to read to your child about visiting the dentist
• Oral health activities for kids
• Getting help from the Tooth Fairy
• Ways to make kids oral hygiene fun

Alternatives to Braces

Braces aren’t always necessary for straighter teeth. In mild cases, less invasive or attention-drawing solutions may do the job better than braces. Two of our favorite options are veneers and invisible braces. They can give you the smile you want without the hassle of metal braces.

In some cases, orthodontic issues may be too complex for us to treat. In cases such as those, Knoxville East will refer you to Myers Orthodontics in Fountain City and Knoxville West will refer you to Dr. Hicks at Epic Orthodontics.

Veneers

Veneers are our favorite alternative to braces since they fix crooked teeth and other cosmetic issues. They’re also low-maintenance, so you don’t have to worry about any extra upkeep. Simply brush, floss, and go to your dental appointments as scheduled to keep them healthy and protected.

Invisible Braces

Invisible braces are another fantastic alternative to traditional varieties. Instead of metal wires, brackets, and rubber bands, you receive a series of clear, custom-made aligners that gradually straighten your teeth over time. They’re clear so they don’t draw attention like traditional braces, and they’re removable so you can brush and floss like you always have.

To learn more about alternatives to metal braces, check out our blog, Knoxville’s 3 Best Alternatives to Braces.

Consult your dental team if you’re interested in braces. You may need them if you experience problems with your bite, have crooked or crowded teeth, or have problems chewing. Children may need braces if they lose their baby teeth early or late, suck their thumbs past the age of 2, and have trouble with nasal breathing. For mild orthodontic cases, veneers and invisible braces may be the best option.

Do you think you may need braces? Contact us today to schedule your consultation!

Knoxville Family Dental has two locations in Knoxville to better serve you. You can call Knoxville West at (865) 691-1121 or you can schedule an appointment online. To make an appointment with Knoxville East, call (865) 544-1711 or make an appointment online.