When people think of orthodontics, they often picture the final result—a straighter smile. But what many don’t realise is that choosing not to correct dental misalignment can lead to serious issues later in life. And these issues often come with a much bigger price tag—not just financially, but also in terms of oral and general health.
At Cumberland Dental in Adelaide, we see firsthand how early, proactive treatment can prevent future complications. Let’s explore the real (and often hidden) costs of skipping orthodontic care.
What Happens If You Ignore Misaligned Teeth or Bite Issues?
Orthodontic issues like crowding, spacing, overbites, underbites, and crossbites don’t usually fix themselves. In fact, they often get worse over time.
Here are some of the most common consequences of leaving them untreated:
1. Increased Risk of Tooth Decay and Gum Disease
Crowded or crooked teeth are harder to clean properly. Even with good brushing habits, it’s often difficult to reach plaque hiding in tight spots or overlapping teeth.
This can lead to:
- Cavities (tooth decay)
- Gum inflammation or bleeding
- Periodontal (gum) disease
- Bad breath
🦷 According to the Australian Dental Association, over 30% of adults have untreated tooth decay—and crowded teeth are a key contributor.
2. Excessive Tooth Wear and Damage
When your teeth don’t align properly, the pressure of chewing isn’t distributed evenly. This can cause:
- Premature wear on some teeth
- Chipping or cracking
- Enamel erosion
- Sensitivity to hot or cold foods
Over time, this damage can result in costly restorative treatments, like crowns, fillings, or even root canals.
3. Jaw Pain, Headaches and TMJ Disorders
A misaligned bite which can put extra strain on the jaw joints (TMJ), leading to:
- Clicking or popping when chewing
- Chronic headaches
- Neck and shoulder pain
- Teeth grinding (bruxism), especially at night
Many patients who’ve lived with untreated bite problems for years report daily discomfort they didn’t realise was connected to their teeth.
4. Speech and Chewing Difficulties
Teeth play a key role in pronunciation and chewing. Misaligned teeth can interfere with certain sounds (especially ‘s’, ‘th’, or ‘f’), and can make chewing difficult or inefficient.
This may lead to:
- Digestive issues from poorly chewed food
- Embarrassment when speaking
- Reluctance to participate in social or school activities (especially for kids and teens)
5. Increased Costs Later On
Many people avoid orthodontic treatment because of the upfront cost. But the longer issues are left untreated, the more likely it is that additional dental work will be needed in the future.
For example:
- Delayed orthodontic care may require extractions later
- Untreated crowding can result in gum surgery or implants
- Minor issues that could have been fixed in 12 months may become complex, multi-year cases
In many cases, investing in early orthodontic care can actually save money over time.
Why Parents Shouldn’t Wait for Their Child to “Grow Into” Their Smile
We often hear parents say, “Let’s wait and see if they grow out of it.” While it’s true that children’s jaws and teeth shift as they grow, early orthodontic assessments (around age 7–9) can identify issues that are best addressed while the mouth is still developing.
Early intervention may prevent:
- Complex treatments in the teen years
- Jaw surgery later in life
- Emotional distress from bullying or low confidence
📉 Australian Stats to Know
- According to the Australian Society of Orthodontists, nearly 50% of children would benefit from orthodontic treatment.
- Studies show untreated malocclusion can impact academic performance and emotional wellbeing due to speech and social anxiety issues.
🦷 What We Offer at Cumberland Dental
We believe everyone should have access to a healthy, functional, and confident smile—without letting cost or fear of treatment get in the way.
We offer:
- Orthodontic assessments for kids, teens, and adults
- Clear aligners and braces for different needs
- Flexible payment plans
- Support with health fund claims
Don’t Wait for Problems to Get Worse
Ignoring orthodontic issues now can lead to bigger—and more expensive—problems in the future. Whether you’re considering treatment for your child or yourself, it’s always worth having a chat with a trusted dental team.
Book your orthodontic consultation today with Dr Jack at Cumberland Dental.
📞 Call us on 08 8271-6233 to take the first step toward a healthier, pain-free smile.
