Everyone is unique and this is also reflected through your teeth. Some teeth are larger than others, have distinct forms, are spaced, or are frequently crooked. But what causes certain teeth to be out of place? We’ll explain why your teeth may be crooked, if any oral health issues may occur as a result, and what alternatives you have to correct them so you can feel confident about your smile.
How Did Your Teeth Become Crooked?
A number of factors can contribute to crooked permanent teeth. It is usually inherited – genes determine the size of our teeth and our jaws. Often there is not enough space in the jaws to accommodate the teeth as the adult teeth grow causing teeth to erupt in places or directions they shouldn’t. Certain behaviours, particularly those formed in infancy, and those that persist into childhood or adolescence can also result in misaligned adult teeth like thumb sucking.
Why Should You Fix Your Alignment?
While small misalignment is normally not a cause for worry, any substantial misalignment that causes an unsightly appearance of teeth leads to an uncomfortable or destructive bite, or makes you feel self-conscious is worth addressing. One of the most significant advantages of having straighter teeth is that they are easier to clean. This can prevent the accumulation of tartar and plaque around and in between your teeth, which eventually leads to tooth decay and gum disease, both of which can irrevocably destroy teeth and lead to other difficulties. Straighter teeth can also provide a comfortable bite and a beautiful smile can help boost self-esteem.
Options To Straighten Your Teeth
If you feel your teeth need to be straightened or have been advised by a dentist that it would be ideal, you will most likely need to visit an orthodontist. An orthodontist is a specialist dentist who is trained to identify and fix misaligned jaws and teeth. Braces, whether metal, ceramic, or invisible (known as clear aligners), are some of the most popular treatment suggestions. Braces function by applying gentle pressure to teeth over time, gradually shifting their position. It is effective and although it doesn’t happen, it is worth the journey!
If orthodontic treatment has been recommended to you, we can work with you to choose your best course of action. Contact Thorndon Orthodontics – we’d love to help!