The Call for Orthodontic Care: Top Three Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore
At Pura Vida Orthodontics, we believe every smile tells a story. But sometimes, our smiles might be trying to tell us something more – that it’s time for orthodontic care.
To help you identify when it’s time to seek a complimentary consultation with your local tooth expert, we’ve compiled a short list of the top three signs that your smile needs some TLC. Let’s explore the top three signs indicating you or your child may need to visit an orthodontist.
When Your Little One Gains (or Loses) Teeth at the Wrong Time
Baby teeth typically begin falling out between the ages of 5 and 7, making room for permanent teeth. It’s also when orthodontic issues can first start really popping up. The American Association of Orthodontists advises a first visit to our office around age 7. This is the best time to check out those chompers and see what’s happening. If there are any troubling signs, we can plan ahead, keep an eye on teeth, and do small (or big) things like Phase I treatment.
While there’s some wiggle room for normal variations, losing baby teeth too early or too late could disrupt the proper alignment of the permanent successors. That’s where we come in. As the local tooth doctors, we can catch issues before they become big problems, treating them early and saving you and your little one a headache down the road.
When You Have Problems Biting Your Cheek or Mouth
Jaw misalignment or a posterior crossbite (a mismatch in the width of the upper and lower jaw) can cause you trouble when talking, eating, or even during physical activity. And whether or not it’s uncomfortable, it’s definitely a sign that something is wrong with your teeth or jaw.
Put a stop to cheek, lip, and tongue biting by rearranging whatever is wrong. Whether you’re facing a bad bite or crooked teeth, braces or clear aligners can help perfect your smile and make life simple again.
When Chewing or Biting is Harder than It Should Be
Experiencing discomfort while chewing or biting isn’t normal – and shouldn’t be ignored. When talking, chewing, or biting becomes painful, it’s time to talk to your dentist or orthodontist about what’s behind your discomfort.
It’s never okay to overlook your orthodontic (or dental) problems. Whether you’re struggling with daily life or want to achieve your dream smile, your orthodontist can help. At Pura Vida Orthodontics, we thoroughly evaluate your teeth and mouth to pinpoint the source of the problem and suggest an appropriate treatment. With Invisalign, ceramic braces, and more, you can adjust your bite and straighten your teeth while keeping you comfortable from start to finish. If left untreated, potential orthodontic problems could cause irreversible damage to your oral health.
Listening to the subtle signs your smile sends you can make a significant difference in your orthodontic journey. At Pura Vida Orthodontics, we’re here to accompany you every step of the way, ensuring that you can enjoy a lifetime of happy, healthy smiles!