Braces are sometimes strictly for cosmetic purposes but they can also be necessary to correct a medical issue. Even if you are not sure whether you need braces, you will want to make an appointment with a reputable orthodontist for an examination and consultation. Still interested in whether you might actually end up needing braces? Take a look at the following signs that you need to speak with an orthodontist.

Your Teeth Do Not Meet

When you close your mouth and rest your upper teeth on top of your lower teeth, do they meet nicely? Do they feel as though they fit in place? If not and if you are noticing that there is a gap there, you will want to speak with an orthodontist. This type of issue can make effectively chewing your food difficult. This can result in pain and even trouble getting your food chewed up enough so you do not risk choking.

Food Is Always Getting Stuck In Your Teeth

If your teeth are positioned in a way that causes them to be overcrowded, you will want to think about getting braces. Overcrowding of teeth can cause you to end up with a lot of stuck food between your teeth. Until you are able to get home to brush your teeth, you could be stuck with that food just sitting there. This can lead to problems such as cavities. The overcrowding of your teeth can also make it hard for some people to feel confident enough to show off their smile.

The Alignment Of Your Teeth Is Impacting Your Speech

It is time to start thinking about getting braces if the positioning of your teeth results in trouble with your speech. And trouble with your speech can cause anxiety and social awkwardness. These are things that can hold you back in both your personal and professional life. Talk with an orthodontist to see what can be done to resolve this issue.

It is important to remember that most dental insurance plans will not cover the cost of braces if they are needed for nothing more than cosmetic reasons. However, if the orthodontist suggests that braces are needed in order to correct your bite, make it easier to eat, or help with speech problems, there is a good chance that dental insurance will cover it. Just make sure that you are checking with your insurance to determine if you can self-refer to the orthodontist or if you need your family dentist to give you a referral.

For more information, contact an orthodontist near you.

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