Misalignment is a common tooth problem that can cause you pain or chewing problems. Additionally, conditions such as overbites can cause your teeth to protrude, and that may affect your confidence. Fortunately, you can get orthodontic treatment such as braces or Invisalign to straighten your teeth. However, you need to visit your orthodontist at the right time before the misalignment worsens for faster results and cost-effective treatment. Here are signs that you should visit an orthodontic clinic.

Teeth Crowding

Crowded teeth are an outright indicator that you should see an orthodontist. Crowding isn't only an aesthetic problem but also an oral health risk. With crowded teeth, it becomes difficult to reach all the teeth during brushing. Hence, you may leave some food and sugar particles in the hidden areas. In return, bacteria may thrive, leading to tooth and gum infections such as gingivitis. More so, crowding can lead to speech problems that prevent you from conversing with people confidently. An orthodontist can recommend different treatments such as tooth extraction, Invisalign aligners, or braces. However, the treatment depends on the severity of the crowding and the patient's preferences.

Mouth or Jaw Pains

If you're experiencing pains or soreness in your mouth or jaw, consider visiting an orthodontist. While you may think that the pain is due to a minor issue, there could be a serious underlying problem such as TMJ (Temporomandibular Joint) disorder. The condition mainly occurs due to malocclusion. Additionally, this syndrome occurs when the jaw muscles and tissues get injured or inflamed. Thus, you may experience pain when chewing or yawning. Orthodontic treatment for this disorder includes dental splints. Ensure that an orthodontic expert checks your teeth when you experience mouth pains or soreness to help catch such problems early and get the right treatment.

Open Bite or Crossbite

If you have an open bite or crossbite, you require orthodontic treatment. Overbites occur when the top and lower teeth don't touch when the jaws close. A crossbite appears when the upper and bottom teeth are misaligned, resulting in speech and biting issues. An orthodontist can help treat these conditions and achieve the proper teeth positioning. The treatments include the installation of braces or retainers. In severe cases, jaw surgery may be the best treatment.

Indicators that you require to visit an orthodontist include mouth pain, open bite or crossbites, and crowded teeth. You should get orthodontic treatment immediately to correct the misalignment issues. Contact a group like Reed & Sahlaney Orthodontics, LLP for a consultation.