If you find yourself trying to hide your smile because of misaligned teeth or you find yourself having difficulty swallowing, these may be indications that you need braces immediately. In fact, the American Association of Orthodontists estimates that as much as 75% of people could benefit from orthodontic treatment. Here are a few warning signs you may need braces or orthodontic treatment:

Gaps in Your Teeth

One reason to seek out local affordable braces is if you have too much space in-between your teeth. Large gaps in your teeth can leave your teeth at risk for decay, eating troubles, and even jaw misalignment. With tooth gaps, it’s also easy for food to get trapped, which can cause pain and gum irritation.

Crooked Teeth

Crooked teeth can cause a lot of problems, not the least of which is a reluctance to smile, and trouble eating and swallowing. When you have crooked teeth, working with a local orthodontist can create extra space and realign your bite. A surefire sign you may need braces is if you have trouble flossing. If you have a hard time getting in-between teeth, local affordable braces can help you create more space.

Painful Biting or Difficulty Biting

If you notice that you experience pain while eating, braces may soon be in your future. If the pain usually happens with sticky foods, or foods that are hard to chew, it could be a tooth or jaw alignment issue. If you find yourself chewing on one side of your mouth to alleviate pain, it’s important to schedule a consultation with an orthodontist.

Protruding Teeth

Another reason you might need to find local affordable braces quickly is if you have protruding teeth. These are teeth that may stick out past the lips. These kinds of teeth can put someone at high risk for a dental injury, such as a broken tooth, and can also affect self-esteem. Braces can help put these teeth back into alignment.

Having issues with your teeth can cause pain, discomfort, and can really take a toll on self-esteem. The good news is that braces can fix all of the issues described above. By scheduling an appointment with an orthodontist, you can get local affordable braces and be on your way to healthier teeth and a brighter smile.