One of the most common dental myths is that braces are solely used to straighten crooked teeth. While bite problems like crowding do 
affect tooth alignment, so that some teeth may overlap or protrude from the gums, orthodontic treatment is also used to address structural problems with the jaw, which in addition to affecting how the teeth look, can also cause other problems like headaches and TMD (temporomandibular disorder, also commonly referred to as TMJ).
Orthodontics Treatment in Bolingbrook
Although braces are most commonly associated with the early teenage years, when developing bite problems are easier to manage, the need for orthodontic treatment can develop at any age, with many adults finding themselves needing this treatment. The dentists at Bolingbrook Dental Care in Illinois treat a broad range of patients for everything from an overbite to missing teeth from a traumatic injury.
There are a few types of bite problems (also known as malocclusions) that may require correction with braces such as:
- Crowding
- Excessive spacing
- Open bite
- Underbite
- Abnormal eruption
- Protrusion (overjet)
- Deep bite (overbite)
- Front teeth crossbite
- Back teeth crossbite
Signs That Your Child May Need Braces
Every case is different, and the need for correction with braces depends on the severity of the problem. Some of the most common signs that you or your child may need orthodontic treatment include:
- Early or delayed loss of baby teeth
- Trouble chewing and swallowing
- Crowding or overlapping teeth
- Shifting in the jaw
- Popping, cracking, or snapping sound when moving the jaw
- Protruding teeth or jaw
- Abnormal spacing
- Poor/non-alignment between the upper and lower jaw
Contact a dentist in Bolingbrook
Braces improve the function and cosmetic appearance of the teeth, and the entire face as a result. For more information about orthodontic treatment for children and adults, contact Bolingbrook Dental Care by calling (630) 739-5500 to schedule an appointment today.