Medical Reasons For Braces

            A common misconception for braces is that they are purely cosmetic.  This very untrue, in fact there are many different health reasons for orthodontics.  The primary function of braces is to move teeth to the best possible alignment, or in dental terms, occlusion.  An off bite, can lead to many oral health problems, including jaw pain.  Malocclusion is the term used to discuss the relationship between the upper and lower teeth.  Your orthodontist will mention of three classifications as defined by the Angles Classification Method: class 1, is an ideal relationship between upper and lower bite, Class II is more commonly known as an “overbite”, which occurs when your upper teeth protrude over your lower, Class III, is also known as an “under bite” is when the patient’s lower jaw is protruding the upper teeth.  Any of these classes can require orthodontia help, because of the further problem with crowding and spacing.  Crowding causes teeth to overlap, flip, rotate, or grow in the wrong position of the mouth.  This can be a problem because it can make brushing and flossing difficult, leading to tooth decay, or periodontal problems. 

            Children should see the orthodontist at around age seven, to catch any future problems that may arise, but it is not limited to just children, adults can benefit as well.  Orthodontia has been known to help correct numerous conditions, including : speech impediments, jaw or TMJ pain, difficulty chewing and eating, sleep apnea, grinding and clenching, and gum disease and tooth decay.