When you live around Clemson or Seneca, you probably see plenty of smiling faces on game days or while strolling through town. You might not pay much attention to how those smiles got so straight and aligned. But it may be time for Dr. McInnis to take a closer look if you’re starting to question the look or feel of your teeth—or your child’s teeth. Orthodontic treatment is not just about appearances. It can also play a part in your overall health and comfort. If you’re wondering whether you should schedule an appointment at Upstate Orthodontics, here are seven signs that can point you in the right direction.
1. You See Crooked or Crowded Teeth
Crooked teeth might seem obvious. Your teeth twist, overlap, or tilt out of place. Crowding can be easier to miss, especially if it’s mild. But pay attention if you notice:
- Overlapping front teeth
- Extra tight spacing, making flossing tricky
- Teeth that look like they’re bumping into each other
You can spot these problems in your child by checking how their teeth fit together, especially once the adult teeth start showing up. Crooked or crowded teeth can make cleaning difficult. Hard-to-reach spots create a hiding place for food particles, which can lead to tooth decay. Over time, the extra strain can also affect how your jaw moves when you chew or speak.
Why It Matters: Straightening teeth is more than looking good in pictures. When teeth are aligned, it’s easier to keep them clean. You also lower your risk of damage to certain teeth that might be pushed forward or pressed behind others.
If this sounds like you (or your child), let’s schedule a consultation. At Upstate Orthodontics, you’ll learn about treatments like braces and clear aligners. You’ll get answers about your options, including what to expect, how long treatment might last, and how it fits your budget.
2. You Notice an Overbite, Underbite, or Crossbite
Bite issues are more common than you might think. Maybe you notice that your top teeth stick out a bit more than they should when your mouth is closed. That’s called an “overbite.” Or, you might see that your lower teeth stick out past your upper teeth. We call that an “underbite.”
Sometimes, a crossbite is present, where your upper teeth sit inside your lower teeth instead of resting on the outside. These differences in bite alignment can show up at any age. They can also get worse if left alone.
Why It Matters: When you have a bite problem, you might put extra stress on certain teeth. Over time, that can wear down your teeth or even cause them to chip. You may also find it harder to speak clearly or chew food the way you should.
If you’ve seen these signs in your child, it’s wise to get them checked sooner rather than later. Early care often means shorter treatment and a better outcome. If you’re an adult, you’re never “too old” for an orthodontic check. Many adults enjoy straighter teeth and a balanced bite after braces or aligners.
3. You Hear Clicking or Popping in Your Jaw
Your jaw joint (often called the TMJ) is a vital hinge that allows you to open and close your mouth. You might not think about it until you notice some odd clicking or popping. Sometimes, that noise can be harmless. But if you have it often (or feel sore), it could be a red flag.
Other jaw-related concerns might include:
- Difficulty opening your mouth all the way
- Feeling like your jaw locks for a moment
- General tightness in the jaw area
Why It Matters: These sounds and sensations could indicate a bite or alignment issue. It’s sometimes linked to misaligned teeth, which can strain the jaw joint. Over time, that strain can worsen and affect your quality of life.
At a visit with Dr. McInnis, you can learn how your bite lines up and whether it’s creating extra pressure on the joint. Treatment often includes moving your teeth into better alignment.
4. Mouth Breathing or Snoring
Consider an orthodontic consultation if you or your child suffer from mouth breathing. It’s not always clear why mouth breathing starts. Sometimes, it’s due to allergies or a nasal blockage. Other times, it might point to a jaw or bite issue that affects how air moves through the mouth.
Snoring in children is also a clue. While snoring isn’t always linked to orthodontic problems, the shape of their jaw and the position of their tongue can play a part. If your child snores often, or if you notice they struggle to breathe at night, it’s worth a chat with our team.
Why It Matters: Better breathing can make a big difference in how you sleep and feel. It’s helpful to rule out structural issues that could be corrected with orthodontic treatment. If your dentist or pediatrician has mentioned concerns about mouth breathing, this is the time to see Dr. McInnis.
5. There’s an Early or Late Loss of Baby Teeth
Children lose their baby teeth at various ages, but there’s a general timeline. What if your child loses baby teeth too early? Or, maybe the teeth wear out their welcome. Either way, it could lead to spacing problems. Early loss of baby teeth might allow other teeth to shift into open spaces, blocking out new teeth that are coming in. Late loss can cause crowding when adult teeth try to emerge but can’t break through in the proper spot.
What to Watch For:
- Baby teeth that remain in place while adult teeth start to come in behind them
- Extra space left by a baby tooth that was lost long before the adult tooth is ready
- Crowding around areas where a baby tooth is missing
Why It Matters: Spotting issues with baby teeth sets the stage for healthier adult teeth. When you stay ahead of these shifts in the mouth, you might avoid the need for more complex procedures later. An early check at Upstate Orthodontics can help you figure out if braces, spacers, or other treatments are right for your child.
6. You Have Trouble Chewing or Biting
Have you ever chewed on one side of your mouth because it felt more natural or comfortable? Maybe your child shies away from certain foods because they’re too chewy or hard. If so, it could point to a misalignment. Proper chewing depends on a balanced bite and a good alignment of your teeth. When something’s off, you might notice:
- Pain in the teeth or jaw when you bite down
- Difficulty breaking down food, especially chewy items like steak or bagels
- A feeling that your back teeth don’t meet like they should
Why It Matters: When your bite doesn’t line up, you could place too much force on some teeth. Over time, that added force can weaken teeth and cause discomfort. It might also lead to worn enamel and even tooth sensitivity. By fixing bite issues with our Upstate Orthodontics team, you’ll likely notice it’s easier to enjoy your meals—and your teeth will thank you in the long run.
7. You Feel Self-Conscious About Your Smile
Orthodontics isn’t only about fixing jaw problems or spacing. It can also give you a boost in confidence. If you find yourself covering your mouth when you laugh or talk, that’s a sign something’s bothering you. Maybe you’ve tried to angle your face in photos so people can’t see certain teeth. Or you notice your teenager hiding their grin in selfies. A lack of confidence can sneak into everyday life, whether it’s at school, work, or social gatherings.
Why It Matters: Feeling good about your smile can change the way you interact with the world. Smiling openly can help you look more approachable. It also encourages a more positive outlook. By choosing orthodontic care, you could remove that mental barrier and enjoy life more fully.
Here’s Your Sign: It’s Time To See Dr. McInnis
Go here to schedule your appointment with Dr. McInnis at Upstate Orthodontics. We have two convenient locations: Clemson and Seneca. We can’t wait to see your new smile.