How Do You Know When to Visit an Orthodontist?
At Total Orthodontics, with offices in Lone Tree and Greenwood Village, CO, Dr. Brooks Barefoot, Dr. Kevin Theroux and Dr. Elizabeth Donahue help patients of all ages identify early signs of orthodontic issues and create treatment plans that lead to lasting results.
In this blog, we’ll explain the key signs that indicate it’s time to visit an orthodontist, what happens during your consultation, and why early attention can make a big difference for your smile and oral health.
What makes an orthodontist different from a general dentist?
While your general dentist focuses on cleanings, fillings, and overall oral health, an orthodontist specializes in diagnosing and correcting alignment and bite issues. At Total Orthodontics, our doctors use advanced digital imaging and treatment options like braces and Invisalign to guide your teeth into healthy, balanced positions.
Orthodontic care isn’t just about improving appearance. It supports your bite, makes cleaning easier, and helps prevent long-term wear and jaw strain.
What Are the Most Common Signs You Should See an Orthodontist?
1. Crooked or Crowded Teeth
One of the most obvious signs is when teeth overlap or twist due to lack of space. Crowded teeth can trap food, making brushing and flossing harder, which increases the risk of cavities and gum disease.
2. Gaps Between Teeth
Spaces between teeth can affect how your smile looks and how your bite functions. In some cases, gaps develop naturally, while in others, they result from missing teeth or jaw alignment issues.
3. Bite Problems
If your top and bottom teeth don’t meet evenly, you may have a bite problem that needs orthodontic attention. The main types include:
Bite Type | Description | Possible Issues |
Overbite | Top teeth overlap too far over bottom teeth | Excess wear, jaw discomfort |
Underbite | Lower teeth extend beyond top teeth | Chewing and speech problems |
Crossbite | Some upper teeth sit behind lower teeth | Uneven wear, jaw misalignment |
Open Bite | Upper and lower teeth don’t touch when mouth closes | Difficulty biting, speech issues |
4. Jaw Pain or Clicking
If you experience jaw discomfort, popping, or clicking sounds when you chew or yawn, it could be related to alignment or bite problems. An orthodontist can evaluate if the jaw joint (TMJ) is under extra strain from misaligned teeth.
5. Difficulty Biting or Chewing
If eating certain foods feels uncomfortable, or you find yourself chewing mostly on one side, your bite may be uneven. Orthodontic care helps balance the pressure across all teeth, making chewing more efficient and comfortable.
6. Mouth Breathing or Speech Problems
Mouth breathing, especially during sleep, may indicate jaw or bite imbalances that affect airway space. Misalignment can also influence pronunciation or speech clarity, especially for children and teens.
7. Worn, Chipped, or Uneven Teeth
When teeth don’t fit together correctly, they can wear down unevenly over time. Orthodontic treatment helps realign your bite, protecting your teeth and preventing future damage.
8. Previous Orthodontic Relapse
Even if you had braces or Invisalign years ago, teeth can shift without consistent retainer use. If you notice crowding or spacing returning, it’s a good idea to schedule an evaluation at Total Orthodontics to explore touch-up treatment options.
When Should Children First See an Orthodontist and Why Is Early Evaluation Important?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic check-up by age 7. At this stage, permanent teeth are coming in, and orthodontists can spot issues with jaw growth or spacing before they become more complex.
What are signs parents should watch for?
- Early or late loss of baby teeth
- Thumb sucking beyond age 6
- Crowded or spaced teeth
- Mouth breathing or trouble chewing
- A jaw that shifts or makes noise
Early intervention can simplify treatment later and, in some cases, prevent the need for more extensive procedures.
Can adults benefit from orthodontics too?
Absolutely. Many adults visit Total Orthodontics to correct misalignment that was never treated earlier or to address changes that occurred over time. Orthodontic care at any age can:
- Improve oral hygiene and ease of cleaning
- Reduce tooth wear and jaw strain
- Boost confidence in personal and professional settings
With discreet options like Invisalign clear aligners and ceramic braces, adult patients can achieve great results comfortably and confidently.
What Happens During an Orthodontic Consultation?
When you visit Total Orthodontics, your first appointment includes:
- A complete exam and digital scan of your teeth and bite
- A discussion of your dental history and goals
- Personalized treatment recommendations
You’ll learn whether braces, Invisalign, or another option fits your needs. Our doctors take time to explain your plan clearly, so you leave feeling informed and confident about your next steps.
How Can Orthodontic Treatment Improve Long-Term Health?
Orthodontic care is about more than a straight smile. It’s about protecting your oral health for life. Aligned teeth are easier to clean and reduce your risk of cavities, gum disease, and jaw strain. Here’s how:
Benefit | How Orthodontics Helps |
Better Cleaning | Straight teeth make brushing and flossing easier |
Healthier Gums | Reduces inflammation from trapped bacteria |
Fewer Cavities | Less crowding means fewer hiding spots for plaque |
Improved Digestion | Balanced bite helps chew food properly |
Less Jaw Stress | Correct alignment eases strain on TMJ joints |
A balanced smile doesn’t just look good. It helps your mouth and body stay healthy.
Taking the Next Step Toward a Healthier Smile
If you’ve noticed any of these signs or simply want to make sure your smile is on the right track, the team at Total Orthodontics is here to help. With offices in Lone Tree and Greenwood Village, Dr. Brooks Barefoot, Dr. Kevin Theroux, and Dr. Elizabeth Donahue combine experience, advanced technology, and compassionate care to create healthy, confident smiles for every patient.
Schedule your consultation today to discover how orthodontic treatment can enhance your smile, comfort, and confidence for years to come.
Quick FAQ Recap: When to Visit an Orthodontist
What are the most common signs I should see an orthodontist?
Crowded teeth, gaps, bite issues, jaw discomfort, trouble chewing, speech concerns, or shifting teeth are all reasons to schedule an evaluation.
Do adults benefit from orthodontic treatment too?
Absolutely. Adults can improve alignment, reduce tooth wear, ease jaw strain, and boost confidence with braces or Invisalign.
When should kids get their first orthodontic check-up?
Age 7 is recommended. Early evaluations help spot growth or spacing issues before they become more complicated.
Can orthodontics improve oral health long-term?
Yes. Aligned teeth are easier to clean, help prevent cavities and gum issues, and reduce strain on the jaw.
What if my teeth shifted after past orthodontic treatment?
Relapse is common without consistent retainer use. A touch-up plan or retreatment may help restore alignment.
