When to Consider Braces From a General Dentist

A general dentist can offer many dental services, including braces. Getting braces from a general dentist can save you the time of searching for an orthodontist. There are many reasons that you should choose braces. Read on to learn more.

When teeth are misaligned

Many people’s teeth grow in to be crowded or crooked. Some of these teeth even overlap. There are many things that can contribute to misaligned teeth. For example, sometimes the jaw does not grow properly, which can result in the teeth becoming crowded or having gaps between them. Losing the baby teeth too early or too late may also cause the teeth to be misaligned. Sucking the thumb can cause the upper teeth to stick out too far.

Patients may also want to consider getting braces if there are problems with the bite. For example, an overbite or an underbite can both be fixed by braces. Problems with the bite happen because of problems with the jaw. For example, the upper jaw might be larger than the lower jaw, which can result in an overbite. On the other hand, if the lower jaw is larger than the upper jaw, an underbite can result.

A general dentist can use braces to shift the patient’s jaw into the right position while realigning the teeth. The dentist may choose to use rubber bands, coils or springs to adjust the jaw. This process can take up to several years in some cases.

When teeth are difficult to clean

When a patient’s teeth are crooked, the teeth are more difficult to properly clean. This can lead to plaque and bacteria to build up, which can cause the teeth to decay. Overcrowded teeth can also provide hiding places for bacteria. Without braces, the patient may eventually begin to suffer from gum disease and loss of the teeth.

Having trouble speaking

In children, severely misaligned teeth can even lead to speech problems. This can cause certain problems such as being unable to pronounce the letter “s.” Patients’ speech can be improved by realigning the teeth into the right positions.

The right time for braces

One of the most ideal times to get braces is between the ages of 10 and 14. This is when a patient has nearly all of the permanent teeth, but the mouth and head are still growing. This can make it easier to straighten the teeth. A dentist can help determine the right time to get braces. However, many adults are getting braces too, especially those who may not have been able to afford them in the past.

Visit a general dentist today

If you have crowded teeth, gaps between your teeth or an overbite, you should consider getting braces. Braces offer many benefits, including improving your oral health. The right time for braces is any time after the adult teeth have come in. A general dentist can examine your mouth and help you determine if you should consider getting braces.

Request an appointment here: https://www.newyorkdentaloffice.com or call New York Dental Office at (212) 548-3261 for an appointment in our New York office.

Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Read our Yelp reviews.