An adult human typically has 32 teeth. But what varies is their look and size which is unique for every individual. For many, the teeth are not aligned, giving a crooked and crowded look. Crooked teeth are not only a cosmetic concern but also increase the risk of oral problems. Let’s understand what causes crooked teeth and the possible crooked teeth treatment.
Causes of Crooked Teeth
Teeth become crooked when they move out of their natural position. They either get crowded together or simply move inwards or outwards while remaining in position. Misaligned teeth can be due to several reasons. These include:
1. Hereditary
The jaw size and shape are a genetic thing. This causes underbites and overbites that are an indicator of crooked teeth.
2. Poor Oral Hygiene
Poor oral hygiene triggers gingivitis, an early-stage gum disease. If left untreated, the gum disease can aggravate, causing the teeth to loosen, shift from position, or even fall out.
3. Teeth Trauma
Any injury directed towards the teeth can cause them to shift from position, resulting in crooked teeth.
In addition to these causes, malnutrition, mouth breathing, tongue thrusting, and the habit of thumb sucking in children can cause crooked teeth.
Complications of Crooked Teeth
In most adults, misaligned teeth are seen as a cosmetic concern. As they affect the smile line, it makes the individual more self-conscious. But crooked teeth can also raise concerns of oral diseases as brushing crooked teeth is challenging. With food remaining stuck at hard-to-reach places, the risk of developing oral diseases increases manifold.
Other complications linked to crooked teeth include:
- Impaired ability to chew food properly due to overbites or underbites.
- Crooked teeth are more prone to chipping and breakage, leading to excessive wear and tear of teeth.
- Speech difficulties become pronounced as misalignment affects the way the sound is articulated.
Should Crooked Teeth be Treated?
The decision to seek treatment for crooked or crowded teeth is entirely a personal one. The treatment for crooked teeth is not mandatory if it does not affect the quality of life. Although imperfect, the crooked teeth can still be seen as a style statement. But if crooked teeth show signs of tooth decay or periodontal disease, seeking crooked teeth treatment becomes important.
Crooked Teeth Treatment Options
The crooked teeth treatment focuses on aligning the misaligned teeth. This requires remodelling of the jaw skeleton. Orthodontists, doctors who are trained and certified to correct teeth deformities, focus on the process of resorption and ossification. While resorption is the breaking down and dissolving of old dental tissues and bones, ossification focuses on rebuilding the bone where required.
The resorption and ossification of bone and tooth tissue allows the movement and straightening of the teeth. The available treatment options are:
1. Metal Braces
The orthodontic treatment requires fixing metal brackets on the teeth. These are connected with wires that gradually apply pressure to the teeth and help move them to the desired position. Metal braces are seen as a clear solution to complex dental alignment issues. The treatment lasts for around two years and requires periodic visits to the orthodontist.
2. Ceramic Braces or Clear Aligners
Unlike metal branches that stand out on teeth, the clear aligners are transparent or tooth-coloured. While they work on the same mechanism as metal braces, they are custom-made, clear plastic aligners. They are removable alternatives to metal braces. They are replaced every two months, custom-made for the particular size. The treatment option is more desirable for minor dental misalignments and can last up to two years.
3. Lingual Braces
The lingual braces are the form of invisible braces. They are just like metal braces but attached to the teeth from the back side, thus not visible. These braces are expensive, difficult to clean and maintain, and not recommended for severe misalignments.
4. Palatal Expander
The palatal expander is a device that aims to widen the arch of the upper teeth. It is typically used in children who have a small palatal size. An expander fixed at the upper palatal using dental cement is periodically adjusted to increase the size of the child’s mouth. The increased jaw size helps the teeth to shift to their proper position.
Conclusion
Crooked teeth is a dental condition grossly marked by misaligned and crowded teeth. While it is a cosmetic concern, it can also trigger dental complications due to difficulty in maintaining oral hygiene. But whatever the cause of crooked or crowded teeth, an orthodontist can help suggest a viable crooked teeth treatment depending upon the severity of misalignment. It is important to seek proper advice and apprise yourself of the available treatment options for your concern.