Can I prevent the need for braces? The short answer is yes.

Nobody knows how much influence genetics has on tooth alignment, but there are a few things you can do about it. Your habits and lifestyle can have a greater effect on your mouth. These factors can help determine whether or not you'll need braces. 

In this post, we talk about what you can do to protect your smile and steer clear of traditional metal braces.

Do you require emergency orthodontic care in Kitchener, ON? We’re here to help. 

1. Starting dental visits early

Are you thinking about your child’s teeth or your own? Children start to lose their primary teeth by age 6. After which, they’ll see their adult teeth come in one by one. 

By taking your child to routine dental checkups, your dentist will be able to monitor the development of their mouth and jaw. They’ll find out early on whether your child needs treatments to help their adult teeth erupt in their ideal position. 

If, on the other hand, you’re concerned about your own smile, it’s not too late to start with routine dental visits. Adults can also receive orthodontic treatment. However, there’ll be differences in the process as the mouth is already developed and less pliable.

2. Avoiding extended thumb-sucking and pacifier use

Avoiding thumb-sucking and other habits that can throw the jaw alignment off balance can help you avoid orthodontic treatments.

Children find comfort in sucking their thumb or finger and using pacifiers, but the prolonged practice of these habits can impact tooth movement. 

Even the extended use of feeding bottles can also lead to overbite issues. These habits can be difficult to break, but doing so will reduce your child's risk of developing orthodontic issues.

3. Preventing fidgeting, nail-biting, and improper jaw resting positions

Both children and adults can develop habits that impact dental alignment. 

Biting nails, using the teeth to open or tear packages, and leaning on your palm for an extended period are common examples. 

By avoiding these habits, you can dodge braces and protect your mouth against potential injuries.

4. Practicing proper posture

Proper alignment involves not only your mouth but other supporting structures as well, such as your jaw, neck, and back. 

When you close your mouth, your upper and lower teeth should come together to allow proper function. When there’s misalignment, the mouth works harder so you can chew and speak. 

Avoiding excessive pressure on the jaw can help prevent misalignment. Leaning on your palm and sleeping face down can cause the jaw to shift and malfunction.

5. Maintaining good oral hygiene habits

Maintaining good oral hygiene habits is also key to preventing the need for orthodontic treatment. 

Daily brushing and flossing and routine professional hygiene cleanings keep the teeth and gums healthy. This prevents premature wear and tear, as well as tooth loss. 

Dental problems, such as gum disease, are connected to poor dental care and can affect how the teeth and jaw develop. 

Can the teeth be straightened without braces?

Orthodontic solutions vary and can cater to different alignment issues. If you require treatments, braces may not be the only solution available.

The Invisalign system, for example, can correct alignment problems without the need for a permanent metal appliance. It uses removable plastic aligners to move the teeth to their ideal position. 

Is there an orthodontist in Kitchener, Ontario, that can help me?

Misaligned teeth and dental problems are among the signs you or your child may need braces. 

An orthodontist can evaluate your mouth and determine which orthodontic solution is right for your situation. If you need an orthodontist in Kitchener, Ontario, contact us at Orthodontic Smile Studio. 

It’s never too late, or too early, to work toward a great, confident smile. Dr. Caley and the rest of our team are excited to welcome you to our office and guide you on your journey to improved oral health. 

Request your complimentary initial consultation on orthodontic treatments today.

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