What is the Cause of Crowded Teeth?
Crowded teeth often arise due to a mismatch between the space available in the jaw and the size of the teeth. There are several factors that contribute to this issue:
Genetics:
Just as we inherit the colour of our eyes and the shape of our nose from our parents, we can also inherit dental patterns and teeth sizing. If your parents or grandparents had spaced teeth or crowded teeth, there’s a chance you might too.
Premature Loss of Baby Teeth:
When a child loses their baby teeth too early, perhaps due to an accident or tooth decay, the adjacent teeth can drift into the empty space. This can make it harder for the adult teeth to find space when they come in.
Jaw Development Issues:
A narrow jaw can provide less space for teeth, leading to crowding. Some of these developmental issues can be influenced by habits in early childhood such as prolonged thumb sucking or the use of a pacifier.
Impacted Teeth:
An impacted tooth is one that doesn’t emerge or only partially emerges from the gum. This can be due to other teeth blocking its path, leading to crowding in the area.
Facial Trauma:
Accidents that lead to jaw displacement can also be a cause for crowded teeth.
If you suspect your teeth are becoming crowded or overlapping, it’s essential to consult with us at Sunshine Boulevard Dental. Early intervention can help in more effective and less invasive treatments, ensuring that you maintain a beautiful, healthy smile.
Exploring Treatments for Crowded Teeth
Crowded teeth is a common dental problem that affects more than the way your teeth look. It can also lead to several dental issues, including difficulty in cleaning, gum diseases, and even speech challenges. At Sunshine Boulevard Dental, we take a comprehensive approach to addressing crowded teeth, ensuring both function and appearance are restored.
We’ll always ensure you’re well-informed and comfortable with any suggested treatment plans.
Orthodontic Braces:
Traditional braces are one of the most effective treatments for crowded teeth and one of the most common things people think of when they think of orthodontists. They consist of brackets attached to the teeth, linked by wires, which are periodically tightened to gradually shift teeth into their desired position.
Clear Aligners:
For those who want a less noticeable solution, clear aligners like Invisalign can be an excellent choice. They are virtually invisible and can be removed for eating, brushing, and special occasions.
Palatal Expanders:
Used primarily in younger patients, palatal expanders widen the upper jaw, creating more space for the teeth to fit properly.
Tooth Removal:
In cases of severe crowding, it might be necessary to undergo tooth extraction on one or more teeth to create space for the remaining teeth to be aligned. If the cause of tooth crowding is the development of wisdom teeth, wisdom teeth removal may be recommended too.
Retainers:
Post-treatment, retainers help in maintaining the new position of the teeth. They can be fixed or removable, depending on individual needs.
Veneers or Bonding:
For mild crowding, dental veneers or bonding can be used to improve the appearance of the front teeth. This approach might be more cosmetic dentistry than functional.
In addition to these treatments, we also recommend regular dental check-ups to monitor the progression of teeth alignment and make adjustments as necessary. Early intervention can lead to quicker, more efficient treatment outcomes. At Sunshine Boulevard Dental, our priority is ensuring you leave with a confident, radiant smile that stands the test of time.
