What are the Main Causes of Crooked Teeth?
Crooked teeth are a common complaint. It is one of the most common reasons people visit their dentist. Misaligned teeth can cause many problems. Your dentist may refer you to an orthodontist. An orthodontist is a dentist who specializes in the treatment of misalignment of teeth, and may use appliances made of ceramic, plastic, or metal to treat crooked teeth. Some appliances are only worn part of the day, while others are attached to your teeth with brackets. These appliances apply a gentle, constant force on your teeth in a carefully controlled direction. This pressure moves your teeth slowly into the correct position. Today’s braces are less noticeable and easier to wear.
Natural Causes of Crooked Teeth
Many times crooked teeth are the result of genetics. If your parent’s teeth are crooked, chances are yours will be too. There are many reasons your teeth may be crooked. Sometime teeth grow in overlapping, twisted, or crooked. Sometimes a person’s mouth is too small for their teeth. This causes the teeth to be crowded and overlapping. A misalignment of the jaw is another cause of crooked teeth. If the upper jaw protrudes more than the lower jaw, the person will have an overbite. If on the other hand the lower jaw protrudes more, an underbite will be the result.
Other Causes of Crooked Teeth
Dental restorations which are not fit properly can be another cause of crooked teeth, such as crowns or fillings. If a child’s jaw is too small to accommodate their erupting teeth, this can also be a cause of crooked teeth. The gum disease gingivitis, tumors of the jaw or mouth, or a facial injury which results in a misalignment of the jaw are also causes for your teeth to be crooked. In children early loss of their baby teeth may be a cause. Tongue thrusting, thumb sucking, prolonged use of a bottle, and using a pacifier after the age of three can cause the teeth to be misaligned.
Signs of Crooked Teeth
Many times you can see for yourself if your teeth are crooked. Your dentist is the best person to determine if you have crooked teeth, and if you need dental appliances to straighten your teeth. Some of the signs he or she will look for include misalignment of the teeth, abnormal appearance of face, discomfort or difficulty when biting or chewing, difficulties in speech such as a lisp. If your dentist finds your teeth need to be aligned, he or she will usually refer you to an orthodontist for treatment.
Crooked teeth can be easily treated today with new and more comfortable dental appliances. Braces are available for children and adults which will help to move the teeth into better alignment. If you think you may have crooked teeth, or you suspect your child has crooked teeth, make an appointment to see your dentist. Today there is no reason to suffer with crooked teeth. There are several options your dentist and orthodontist have to help you have a healthy smile.