A healthy smile does more than look nice. It helps you chew, speak, and feel good. Braces or aligners can fix how your teeth and jaw line up.

Many people think braces are only for kids. That’s not true. People of any age may need orthodontic care. If your teeth feel off or look uneven, this guide will help. 

Here are 10 signs you might need orthodontic treatment.

1. Crowded or Overlapping Teeth

When teeth are too close together, they may twist or pile up. This is called crowding.

Why it matters:

• It’s hard to clean between teeth.
• You may miss spots while brushing.
• It can get worse over time.
• It might make you feel shy about your smile.

2. Gaps Between Teeth

Gaps happen when there’s too much space between teeth. This can be due to small teeth, missing teeth, or jaw shape.

Why it matters:

• Food can get stuck in the gaps.
• Gaps can change how your bite works.
• They may affect your speech.

3. Overbite (Deep Bite)

An overbite is when your top teeth cover your bottom teeth too much.

Signs:

• Your lower teeth are hidden when you bite.
• Your bottom teeth may touch the roof of your mouth.
• You notice uneven wear on the front teeth.

4. Underbite

An underbite is when your lower teeth stick out past your upper teeth.

Why it matters:

• It can make chewing and speaking hard.
• It may cause jaw pain.
• It can change how your face looks.

5. Crossbite

In a crossbite, some top teeth sit inside the bottom teeth when you bite.

Signs:

• Teeth may wear down unevenly.
• Gums may recede on one side.
• Kids may have uneven jaw growth.

Why it matters:

• It can strain your jaw and cause TMJ problems.

6. Open Bite

An open bite means your top and bottom front teeth don’t touch when your back teeth are closed.

Causes:

• Thumb sucking or tongue pushing
• Long use of pacifiers or bottles
• Jaw growth problems

Why it matters:

• Hard to bite foods like apples or sandwiches
• Trouble saying “s” or “z” sounds
• It can affect your confidence

7. Jaw Pain or Clicking

Pain, popping, or clicking in your jaw could mean your bite is off.

Signs:

• Your jaw locks open or shut
• Clicking or popping sounds
• Frequent headaches or neck pain

8. Trouble Chewing or Biting

If eating feels awkward or you often bite your cheeks, your teeth may be misaligned.

Signs:

• Avoiding certain foods
• Teeth feel like they don’t fit together
• Uneven tooth wear

9. Speech Problems

Teeth help make sounds. If they’re out of place, it can affect speech.

Problems you may notice:

• Lisp or slurred words
• Trouble with “s,” “sh,” “ch,” or “th” sounds
• Feeling shy about talking

Why it matters: Speech issues can affect school, work, or social life.

10. Shifting Teeth or Relapse

If your teeth are moving after past orthodontic treatment, this is called relapse.

Signs:

• Teeth look more crowded or spaced
• Your bite feels different
• Smile changes

Why Choose a Trustworthy Clinic

Your smile matters. You deserve care that fits your needs. An expert dentist will offer you:

• Braces, Clear Braces, and Invisalign
• iTero digital scans for no-goop impressions
• Friendly experts for both kids and adults

Learn more about Orthodontics services in: Canadian Association of Orthodontists (CAO).

Final Thoughts

A straight smile is more than pretty. Whether it’s your first time thinking about braces or you’ve had them before, watch for these 10 signs. Getting help early can improve your health and confidence.Don’t wait. A visit to the orthodontist could be your first step to a healthier smile.