Most people don't have naturally straight teeth. Luckily, professional orthodontists can help! The benefits of straight teeth go beyond having a pretty smile as misalignment concerns can breed other issues. Here are signs that you or your child needs braces treatment.

1. Bite Alignment Issues

Has eating become difficult because of poor jaw alignment? Did your child suck their thumb too long and now has to deal with an overbite? Braces can correct an over, under, or crossbite.

2. Speech Problems

When you talk, your tongue works in cohesion with the teeth to produce syllables. If you notice that your child has a speech impediment, it may be due to poor alignment. Such problems can affect a child's confidence and interaction with peers. Adults can suffer the same issues which can impede job prospects. According to Kids Health, the average length of time a person will need to wear braces is about two years. Going through such braces treatment for two years can lead to clearer speech and open the doors to more opportunities in life.

3. Difficulty Maintaining Oral Hygiene

The American Dental Association suggests that people should brush and floss at least twice a day or after every meal. Even if you brush or floss regularly, you may find it difficult to cleanse each tooth when some are hiding behind others due to severe crookedness. Not being able to reach each tooth's surface with a toothbrush or floss can lead to decay.

4. Sleep Apnea or Poor Sleep

Do you still feel groggy after a full night's sleep because you keep waking up? Has your child begun to snore loudly? You or your child may be dealing with sleep apnea. This condition results from your jaw blocking your airway during sleep. You'll often wake up frequently, sometimes with coughing, due to a blocked airway. Poor sleep can result in other health issues, such as fatigue, weight problems, inflammation, and cognition problems. Children may not reach their growth milestones since their growth hormones are active at night when they should be in restful sleep.

These are some reasons why you or your child may need braces treatment immediately. Your orthodontist may offer different types of braces which they'll review with you during your consultation. To prevent or stop ongoing health issues related to poor tooth alignment, contact Greater Chattanooga Orthodontics today to begin care.