Braces or Invisalign aren’t just about having a picture-perfect smile—though that’s a great bonus. For many patients, orthodontic treatment is about improving function, promoting healthy development, and preventing long-term dental and health issues.
Whether you’re an adult considering a tune-up or a parent wondering about your child’s bite, the question often comes down to this: How do I know if braces or Invisalign are actually needed?
How to Know When It’s Time to See an Orthodontist in Marin County, CA
At Simple Orthodontics in Larkspur, Dr. Sean Carlson believes in educating families first. “Every smile has a story,” Dr. Carlson says. “Our job is to understand where it’s going and how we can guide it in the right direction—with as little intervention as possible and as much clarity as we can provide.”
If you’re seeing any of the signs below, it might be time to schedule an orthodontic consultation.
1. Crooked or Crowded Teeth
One of the most common—and most noticeable—signs that braces or Invisalign may be needed is crooked or crowded teeth. Crowding can make brushing and flossing difficult, which raises the risk for cavities and gum disease. It can also affect how your bite fits together, leading to uneven wear or jaw pain.
In children, crowding often becomes visible around age 7 or 8 when the adult teeth begin to emerge. In adults, teeth can shift over time, especially if you didn’t wear a retainer after previous treatment.
Dr. Carlson’s Tip: “Spacing or crowding isn’t just a cosmetic issue. It can signal underlying jaw development problems that are best addressed early.”
2. Overbite, Underbite, or Crossbite
Bite problems—also called malocclusions—can affect chewing, speech, and jaw function. Here’s what to watch for:
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Overbite: Upper teeth extend too far over the lower teeth
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Underbite: Lower teeth protrude past the upper teeth
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Crossbite: Some upper teeth sit behind the lower teeth
These issues can lead to TMJ discomfort, uneven tooth wear, and even facial asymmetry if left untreated.
Did you know? Dr. Carlson uses advanced 3D imaging to detect bite problems that aren’t always obvious in a traditional exam. Catching them early can lead to simpler, less invasive treatments.
3. Early or Late Loss of Baby Teeth
If your child loses baby teeth much earlier or later than expected, it could disrupt the timing of adult tooth eruption. This may create crowding, impactions, or bite issues down the road.
The ideal age for a first orthodontic check-up is around age 7, when we can evaluate how adult teeth are coming in and whether early intervention is needed.
Dr. Carlson says: “Orthodontics isn’t about rushing into braces—it’s about planning smart. Early screenings allow us to guide growth, not just react to problems.”
4. Breathing Through the Mouth or Snoring at Night
This might surprise you, but how your child breathes can impact how their jaws and face develop. Mouth breathing and snoring in children can be signs of a restricted airway, which may lead to narrow dental arches, misaligned teeth, and even behavioral or sleep problems.
If your child sleeps with their mouth open, snores, or has difficulty breathing through their nose, it’s worth evaluating with a team that understands both orthodontics and airway health—like Simple Orthodontics.
“We don’t treat sleep apnea,” Dr. Carlson says, “but we’re often the first ones to spot airway issues that affect your child’s growth, sleep, and quality of life.”
5. Difficulty Chewing, Speaking, or Biting
Problems with chewing or biting—such as frequently biting the cheeks or lips—can indicate misalignment of the teeth or jaws. Similarly, if your child has a speech impediment or struggles to pronounce certain sounds, orthodontics may help by adjusting the position of the teeth or tongue.
These issues may not be obvious at first glance, which is why a professional orthodontic evaluation is so valuable.
6. Teeth That Stick Out (Protrusion)
Whether it’s top teeth that jut forward or bottom teeth that angle out, protrusive teeth are more vulnerable to trauma and injury. They can also be a sign of jaw imbalance.
Dr. Carlson uses digital simulations to show how correcting protrusion can protect teeth from injury and improve facial aesthetics and function—often without needing extractions or surgery.
7. Shifting Teeth in Adulthood
Yes, adults can—and often do—need braces or Invisalign. Teeth continue to move as we age, especially without proper retention or if gum health becomes an issue. You may notice spacing, relapse from past treatment, or a bite that just doesn’t feel right anymore.
The good news? Clear aligners like Invisalign make it easier than ever to straighten your smile discreetly and efficiently.
“We treat more adults than ever,” says Dr. Carlson. “And with our customized aligner systems, most treatments are shorter and more comfortable than people expect.”
8. Jaw Pain, Clicking, or Headaches
Persistent jaw pain, tension, or clicking sounds can stem from bite misalignment or muscle strain. These symptoms often appear gradually, but they can significantly impact your daily comfort and function.
An orthodontic evaluation can help determine whether your bite is contributing to these issues and whether treatment can help restore harmony to your jaw joints.
When to See an Orthodontist
If any of the above signs sound familiar, the best next step is to schedule a consultation. At Simple Orthodontics, we offer:
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Advanced 3D Imaging to diagnose what others might miss
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Custom braces and Invisalign designed for comfort and speed
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Flexible treatment plans tailored to busy families
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A no-pressure, educational approach that helps you make confident decisions
Book Your Orthodontic Evaluation in Marin County Today
Located in downtown Larkspur, Simple Orthodontics is proud to serve families throughout Marin County with world-class care in a modern, welcoming environment. Whether it’s time for your child’s first screening or you’re exploring options for yourself, Dr. Carlson and his team are ready to help.
