Your teeth do so much more than help you flash a smile—they play a vital role in your overall oral health and daily comfort. But how do you know when it’s time to seek orthodontist treatment in St. Clair Shores? While some signs are obvious, others are more subtle, sneaking into your life and causing discomfort or frustration over time. Let’s explore the seven most common reasons to consider scheduling a visit to LakePointe Orthodontics with Dr. Jezdimir, Dr. Frenchi, and Dr. Daabous.
1. Early or Late Loss of Baby Teeth
Timing is everything, especially when it comes to losing baby teeth. Most kids start losing them between the ages of 5 and 7, but sometimes, they fall out too early or stick around longer than they should. Either scenario can impact how permanent teeth grow, potentially leading to alignment issues.
If you notice this happening with your child, it’s a great idea to have their teeth and jaw development checked by Dr. Jezdimir, Dr. Frenchi, or Dr. Daabous. Early intervention can make a big difference, addressing small issues before they grow into bigger concerns.
2. Crowding, Gaps, or Misaligned Teeth
Teeth that are too close together, spaced too far apart, or growing in awkward directions can affect more than just appearance—they can create long-term health issues. For example:
- Crowded Teeth: Harder to clean, increasing the risk of cavities.
- Gaps: May leave gums exposed and vulnerable to damage.
- Misalignment: This can lead to uneven wear on teeth and jaw discomfort.
Metal braces, clear braces, and Invisalign can correct these problems and improve both function and aesthetics.
3. Biting Cheeks or Lips Regularly
Accidentally biting the inside of your cheeks or lips might seem minor, but when it happens often, it could point to a bigger problem with your bite. Misalignment in your jaw or teeth can lead to this frustrating habit, sometimes without you even realizing it.
Orthodontic solutions like braces or Invisalign are designed to gently adjust your bite, helping you avoid these painful moments while improving your comfort.
4. Difficulty Chewing or Biting
Struggling to eat comfortably isn’t just annoying—it’s a sign something might be off with your teeth or jaw alignment. If biting into a sandwich or chewing feels awkward or painful, don’t ignore it.
This is one of the most common signs people overlook, chalking it up to something they just “deal with.” But you don’t have to live with that discomfort. Orthodontic care at LakePointe can address these issues, making mealtime enjoyable again.
5. Teeth That Appear Too Small or Too Large
If teeth seem noticeably out of proportion with your child’s face—whether they look too small or too large—it could be a sign of underlying alignment or developmental issues. This can affect both aesthetics and how their teeth function together.
Orthodontic care can help balance these proportions by addressing spacing, alignment, or other contributing factors. By ensuring that the teeth are properly aligned and suited to the structure of the jaw and face, treatment can create a harmonious, natural look while improving function.
6. Thumb-Sucking or Other Oral Habits
Some habits, like thumb-sucking, linger past the toddler years and start to impact the development of a child’s mouth and teeth. Prolonged sucking can push teeth out of place, affect jaw alignment, and even change the shape of the palate.
If your child has had a hard time breaking this habit, orthodontic treatment can help correct any resulting issues and set them on the right track.
7. Breathing Through the Mouth
This one might surprise you, but consistent mouth breathing can signal structural issues in the jaw or nasal passages. Over time, this habit can impact jaw growth and lead to alignment concerns.
Dr. Jezdimir, Dr. Frenchi, and Dr. Daabous can work alongside other specialists to identify the root cause and develop a treatment plan to help improve airflow and correct any alignment problems caused by prolonged mouth breathing.
When Should You Schedule That First Visit?
If you’re noticing any of these signs—or even if you just have a feeling something isn’t quite right—it’s never too early to get an opinion from an orthodontist. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that kids have their first orthodontic evaluation at around age 7, but adults can benefit from a consultation at any time. It’s always better to address concerns sooner rather than later.
How We Help at LakePointe Orthodontics
Dr. Jezdimir, Dr. Frenchi, and Dr. Daabous—understand that every patient’s needs are different. That’s why we offer personalized treatment options. Don’t let discomfort or concerns about your teeth hold you back any longer. Schedule a consultation with us in St. Clair Shores today.
