4 Common Reasons People Need Dental Braces

Braces are quite commonly prescribed, whether the referral comes in your adolescence or as an adult. This is because braces treat a wide variety of dental issues. We often view braces as solutions for crooked teeth; they are seen as treatments for issues that are largely cosmetic. Firstly, the problems that braces solve are far from cosmetic only. Secondly, braces go beyond simply correcting crooked teeth. Let’s dive in to some of the most common reasons why people get braces.

1. Underbite

One issue that quickly becomes visually apparent for those suffering from bite issues is the classic underbite. An underbite can be difficult to handle, and not just because it’s so visible. The real issue with an underbite is the fact that it misaligns the jaw, which can cause difficulty with chewing, as well as very real pain in the long term.

2. Overbite

Just like an underbite, an overbite can cause problems with your ability to chew, as well as tension and pain throughout the jaw and neck. However, overbites often go overlooked, because unless they are severe, they are not as noticeable visually as underbites. According to the American Dental Association, an abnormal bite will typically be noticed by a dentist when a patient is between the ages of 6 and 12, which leads to orthodontic treatments, like braces, beginning between the ages of 8 and 14.

3. Overcrowded Teeth

When teeth are overcrowded, they can begin overlapping with each other. This makes it difficult for adult teeth to erupt. In fact, this is precisely why wisdom teeth often need to be removed; they simply can’t erupt properly and become impacted. Braces prevent this issue from occurring with other teeth, aligning the teeth properly.

4. Gaps

While a small gap may not seem like that much of an issue when you’re young, it can become much more of a problem as you get older. Food can get stuck in these gaps, causing decay and bacteria build-up. Braces will ensure that these gaps shrink significantly, or are eliminated entirely.

Braces are used to correct a wide variety of issues. Some people wear braces for conditions that are fairly unique to their specific needs; they may be missing certain adult teeth, and need their teeth shifted to accommodate dental implants. No matter what, if you are recommended braces, you should not avoid getting them.