If you are unhappy with your smile, you may have asked yourself if you need braces. While it may seem that considering braces is a decision for children and teens, wearing braces as an adult is becoming more common, especially given the availability of clear braces and invisible aligners, such as Invisalign. The American Association of Orthodontists reports that one in four orthodontic patients is an adult. Of course, getting braces will improve your smile and appearance, but there are also a multitude of dental conditions that braces can address. Knowing the signs that you need braces can be helpful in determining if this is the right solution for you.

#1 Sign you need braces: You’re unhappy with your smile

The strongest indicator that you should consider braces is if you are unhappy with your smile. If you find yourself smiling with your mouth closed or hiding your teeth, braces can greatly improve your confidence. If you are self-conscious about how braces will look, you may want to consider Invisalign. Invisalign aligners are made with clear BPA-free plastic and are custom fit to your mouth. Clear aligners can give you the smile you desire without visibly displaying brackets, bands, or archwires. Invisalign can correct a wide variety of problems, including misalignment, crooked teeth, and bite issues.  

#2 Sign: Difficulty brushing or flossing

If your teeth are crooked or crowded, you will benefit from having braces. It can be difficult to brush and floss between and around crooked teeth, so getting braces can improve your ability to maintain good dental health. 

#3 Sign: Problems eating, drinking, speaking, or breathing

According to the National Library of Medicine severe misalignment of teeth can affect eating, drinking, speaking, and even breathing. If you are having any of these issues, consider if your teeth or jaw are misaligned. You can tell your teeth are misaligned if they do not close over each other properly when your mouth is at rest. Braces can improve the position of certain teeth or the upper and lower jaw. With braces, the archwire runs along the teeth and pulls teeth in the desired direction. This causes your teeth to gradually change position. 

#4 Sign: Issues with your bite

There are several types of issues you can have with your bite, including an overbite, underbite, and crossbite. 

Overbite: An overbite is when the upper teeth extend too far out over the lower teeth. This can cause the lower teeth to bite into the roof of the mouth or excessive incisor wear.

Underbite: In contrast to an overbite, an underbite occurs when the lower jaw extends too far out, causing the lower teeth to sit in front of the upper teeth.

Crossbite: A crossbite can cause facial asymmetry given the improper use of the lower jaw. This misaligned jaw growth can cause the lower jaw to move forward or to the side, resulting in an incorrect bite.

Using rubber bands, or elastics, with braces or Invisalign can properly align your bite for a healthier, happier smile.

Of course, the most effective method for determining if you need braces is to have a consultation with your orthodontist. Start a virtual consultation with Dr. Jill Bruno to get started soon!