When to Seek Treatment – Plano, TX
Knowing When to Take the Next Step
At Willow Bend Orthodontics of Plano, we believe in providing high-quality orthodontic care to patients of all ages. By offering state-of-the-art services that are designed to realign teeth and ensure long-lasting results, we can help you and your child feel more confident and enjoy a better quality of life. As your local Plano orthodontists, Dr. Jones and Dr. Hanson is an advocate for early treatment and is pleased to help both parents and children identify when it is the right time for orthodontic care. If you are ready to take the next step, call our office today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Jones and Dr. Hanson.
If you’re unsure when it’s best to get in to see an orthodontist near me, be mindful of the following changes or developments that can occur:
Bite Changes
No matter the type of bite you have (i.e., overbite, underbite, crossbite, open bite, dental midlines), the longer you wait to seek treatment, the greater your risk for serious problems. From chronic jaw pain to wear and tear on your tooth enamel, your smile can leave you uncomfortable both physically and emotionally. Fortunately, Dr. Jones, Dr. Hanson and our team at Willow Bend Orthodontics of Plano can review your smile and facial structure to determine which orthodontic solution is right for you. With the help of braces, we can bring your bite into proper alignment and alleviate the mounting pressure placed on your teeth and jaw.
Spaces Between Your Teeth
Whether you are a teenager or adult, you are likely looking for ways to get rid of the gap between your two front teeth. Not only is your self-esteem taking a hit, but you’re likely beginning to experience additional problems with your oral health. Over time, gum disease, tooth decay, and cavities can become more of an issue because of the unnecessary space that easily traps bacteria and food particles. Brushing and flossing may be difficult, which is why braces can help to bring your teeth closer together, eliminating the gap and creating a healthier, more aesthetically pleasing appearance.
Difficulty Sleeping
If you begin to notice that you have difficulty sleeping, it may be due to an orthodontic problem that can be tied to sleep apnea. When the facial abnormalities develop, it can lead to oral problems and the inability to breathe properly throughout the night. Obstructions in the airway can cause you to experience frequent interruptions while you sleep, causing you to wake gasping for air. As a result, you may develop obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). To avoid this problem, it is best to find an orthodontist who can recommend the right method of treatment to not only improve your smile but also your ability to breathe and achieve successful sleep at night.
Crooked Teeth
Crooked teeth are not uncommon. Millions of children, teens, and even adults live with teeth that are not in perfect alignment. Unfortunately, this problem can make it harder to maintain good oral hygiene and prevent cavities and gum disease. The good news, however, is that Dr. Jones or Dr. Hanson can recommend traditional metal braces or even clear aligners to straighten your teeth and give you a beautiful, healthy smile that can last a lifetime with proper care.
Grinding Your Teeth
Are you suddenly waking with a sore jaw? Do you feel as if you’ve been chewing on something hard all night? Is there something going on in your life causing you immense stress? If so, you may be grinding your teeth and suffering from what is known as bruxism. If you begin to develop this particular problem, it’s time to see an orthodontist. The longer you wait to seek treatment, the greater your risk for temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD) and worn-down tooth enamel. Braces can realign your bite, relieve pressure on your jaw joints, and prevent your teeth from grinding and causing them to wear down more quickly. You should know that you may also be recommended for a customized mouthguard to help keep your upper and lower teeth apart while you sleep.
Overcrowding
If you notice that your teeth are sitting too close together, an orthodontist can mitigate the problem by recommending one of the many effective treatment options available. Whether it is metal braces, clear aligners, or even self-ligating braces, we can create the necessary space between your teeth, giving you a better chance at optimal oral health and an improved appearance.