Smiles have a way of telling a story—whether it’s a confident grin or a hesitant smirk. Sometimes, your teeth might be sending signals that it’s time for a little expert attention from Drs. Eric and Lena Bortnem at Bortnem Orthodontics. Subtle changes in the way your teeth feel or function can hint at underlying concerns that shouldn’t be ignored. Curious if it’s time for an orthodontic visit? Let’s break it down.
Teeth That Seem to Be Shifting
Teeth are constantly shifting throughout our lives (unless they are being held in position by retainers). Over time, you might notice small gaps appearing where none existed before or teeth that once fit together comfortably now feeling a little out of sync. Whether it’s due to natural changes, past dental work, or habits like grinding, these shifts can impact both the function and appearance of your smile.
Fortunately, Bortnem Orthodontics offers treatments like braces and clear aligners that can help guide teeth back to a more balanced position. If you’ve spotted these subtle changes, it might be the right moment to take a closer look at what’s happening, especially if other signs are starting to show, like bite troubles.
Trouble with Biting or Chewing
Eating should be easy and enjoyable, but when biting into your favorite foods feels awkward or uncomfortable, it might be a sign of an issue beneath the surface. Misaligned teeth or bite problems can make it challenging to chew properly, leading to unnecessary strain on your jaw and even digestive concerns. Some common signs to watch for include:
- Uneven wear on teeth – Certain areas of your teeth may wear down faster than others.
- Difficulty biting into harder foods – Biting into apples or sandwiches shouldn’t feel like a challenge.
- Shifting jaw movements – If your jaw feels like it’s working harder than it should, something may be off.
Bortnem Orthodontics provides tailored treatment options to help correct these issues, making everyday meals feel effortless again.
Speech Sounds a Little Off
Ever find yourself stumbling over certain words or feeling like your speech isn’t as clear as it should be? The position of your teeth plays a bigger role in speaking than most people realize. Some common signs that your teeth might be affecting your speech include:
- Persistent lisping – Especially with “s” or “th” sounds – the position of your front teeth is essential in pronouncing these sounds correctly.
- Frequent biting of the tongue or cheeks – This can throw off your ability to form words comfortably.
Patients at Bortnem Orthodontics found relief with treatments that can adjust tooth placement to support clearer, more confident speech. Speaking of confidence, let’s talk about how changes in your smile’s appearance can also be a reason to consider orthodontic care.
Changes in Your Smile’s Appearance
Have you noticed something different when you look in the mirror? Teeth shift over time, and even small changes in their position can impact the way your smile looks and feels. Maybe a once-even row of teeth is starting to look a little off, or gaps you never had before are suddenly making an appearance. These changes can happen gradually, but they often hint at deeper alignment concerns that might need attention.
Choosing Bortnem Orthodontics means having a team that knows how to bring balance back to your smile. Feeling great about your teeth makes everything—from snapping photos with friends to speaking up in meetings—more enjoyable. But there’s more to a healthy smile than just looks; everyday habits might be shaping your teeth in ways you don’t even realize.
Habits That Could Be Affecting Your Teeth
Some habits may seem harmless, but can have lasting effects on your teeth and jaw. Thumb sucking, tongue thrusting, and mouth breathing can gradually shift teeth out of place and affect jaw growth, sometimes leading to bite issues that need professional attention. These habits can cause:
- Teeth that push forward or gaps that weren’t there before
- Mouth breathing that affects oral health and jaw development
- Challenges with keeping lips closed naturally
The Bortnem Orthodontics team can help you find a treatment plan to help correct these effects and improve overall dental health. If these habits sound familiar, now might be the perfect time to explore solutions that support long-term oral health.
Is It Time to See an Orthodontist?
If any of these signs sound familiar, it might be time to check in with Drs. Eric and Lena Bortnem at Bortnem Orthodontics. Whether it’s shifting teeth, bite concerns, or habits that are affecting your smile, their team is ready to help. The good news? A healthier, more confident smile is within reach. Schedule a consultation today and take the first step toward feeling great about your teeth!
