As your child grows up to their teen years, his or her smile does a lot to determine the way he or she feel about themselves. A healthy and straight smile is not merely cosmetic—it also promotes improved oral health. But how can you be certain if your teen needs an orthodontist in Culver City? Some of the indications are self-evident, but others tend to be too easy to miss unless you think about what you should look out for.
The following are the top five indications your teenager might require orthodontic care:
1. Overcrowded or Overcrowded Teeth
If your teen’s teeth are crowded or overlap each other, it’s time to go see a professional. Crowding is hard to brush between the teeth and can lead to cavities and gum disease. Teens with crooked teeth also tend to be self-conscious about smiling or talking. Braces or clear aligners will fix that and boost their confidence.
2. Difficulty Chewing or Biting
Is your teen having trouble chewing food or biting down evenly? If so, this could be a sign that their teeth or jaws aren’t lined up properly. Problems like overbites, underbites, or crossbites can make eating uncomfortable and even painful. An orthodontist near you can check for bite problems and suggest a treatment plan that fits your teen’s needs.
3. Mouth Breathing or Snoring
Mouth breathing—especially during sleep—can sometimes be linked to jaw or bite issues. If your teen breathes through their mouth more than their nose or snores often, this could mean there’s an issue with how their jaws are shaped or how their teeth fit together. Getting orthodontics for teen in Culver Citycan help improve breathing and support better sleep and overall health.
4. Frequent Biting of Cheeks or Lips
Pay attention if your teen often bites the inside of their cheeks or lips while chewing or talking. This could be because their teeth are misaligned and don’t close the right way. When the teeth don’t come together properly, soft tissues in the mouth can get in the way. Orthodontics for teen near you may help fix these alignment problems and make everyday activities more comfortable.
This type of misalignment can also lead to small sores or pain in the mouth. Over time, it might affect how clearly your teen speaks or how confidently they eat in front of others. The right treatment can ease these issues and improve their everyday comfort.
5. Losing Baby Teeth Too Early or Too Late
The timing of baby teeth falling out is important. If your teen lost baby teeth earlier or later than most kids, their adult teeth might not be in the most suitable position. This can affect the way their smile looks and functions. Even if their smile seems fine now, underlying issues can appear later. An early checkup with an orthodontic expert can prevent more complex problems in the future.
When permanent teeth don’t grow in properly, they can crowd or come in at odd angles. This may lead to discomfort, trouble cleaning, or even speech issues over time. Catching these issues early makes treatment easier and helps guide the teeth into better alignment.
Confidence Starts with a Healthy Smile—Visit Coco Lane Orthodontics!
If your teen is showing any of these signs, it might be time to schedule a visit to Coco Lane Orthodontics. Our friendly team works with teens every day and knows how to make the experience smooth and stress-free. From braces to clear aligners, we offer options that fit into your teen’s lifestyle and bring out their most suitable smile.
Ready to take the next step? Let us help your teen smile with confidence. Contact Coco Lane Orthodontics today and book a consultation—we’re here to make sure their smile shines bright for years to come!
