Crooked teeth are very common. Additionally, several of our patients have overbites or underbites, meaning that their resting bite is not even and protrudes out in some way. Garner Family and Cosmetic Dentistry offers orthodontic consultations for patients who want to resolve misalignment and straighten their smiles. Dr. Matthew Jenne works with each patient individually to determine the best treatment plans for orthodontic care.
Understanding Crooked Teeth
Crooked teeth are very common, and many people have them. Some people are born with straight teeth, while others see their teeth shift or grow in the wrong direction. There are several reasons why teeth can come in crooked or become crooked over time.
1. Genetics
One of the most common causes of crooked teeth is genetics. If your parents or grandparents had crooked teeth, there’s a good chance you will too. You might inherit a small jaw, large teeth, or insufficient space in your mouth. When teeth don’t have room to grow, they can come in at an angle or overlap.
2. Thumb Sucking and Pacifier Use
If a child sucks their thumb or uses a pacifier past age 3 or 4, it can change the shape of their mouth. This habit pushes the teeth forward and may lead to an open bite or overbite. The longer the habit lasts, the more likely it is to cause crooked teeth.
3. Tongue Thrusting
Tongue thrusting happens when the tongue pushes against the front teeth during swallowing. Over time, this pressure can move the teeth out of place and lead to alignment problems. It can also cause an open bite, where the top and bottom teeth don’t meet correctly.
4. Mouth Breathing
Breathing through the mouth instead of the nose—especially during childhood—can affect how the jaw and teeth develop. Mouth breathing may lead to a long face, narrow upper jaw, and crowded teeth.
5. Losing Baby Teeth Too Early or Too Late
Baby teeth help guide adult teeth into the right position. If a child loses a baby tooth too early (from decay or injury), the space for the adult tooth can close. When the permanent tooth comes in, it may grow in crooked or get stuck. On the other hand, if baby teeth don’t fall out on time, they may block adult teeth and cause crowding.
6. Injury or Trauma
An injury to the mouth or jaw can shift teeth out of place. Accidents like falling, getting hit during sports, or biting something hard can damage the alignment of teeth or even knock teeth out completely.
7. Poor Dental Habits
Not brushing or flossing properly can lead to gum disease or tooth loss. When a tooth falls out, nearby teeth can shift and become crooked. Even minor gum issues can change how teeth sit in the jaw over time.
Why Straighten Crooked Teeth?
Straightening crooked teeth isn’t just about having a picture-perfect smile. It also helps you keep your teeth and gums healthy, improves how your mouth works, and boosts your confidence. If you or your child has misaligned teeth, orthodontic treatment can make a big difference in your daily life and your long-term health.
When teeth are crooked or crowded, it’s harder to keep them clean. Brushing and flossing around tight spots becomes challenging, and plaque and food can get trapped more easily. Over time, this can lead to cavities, bad breath, and gum disease. Straightening your teeth gives your toothbrush and floss better access to every surface, helping you maintain good oral hygiene and prevent future problems.
Straight teeth also benefit gums. When teeth are properly spaced and aligned, gums can fit more securely around each one. This snug fit helps protect teeth from bacteria and reduces the chance of inflammation, swelling, or gum recession. Healthier gums lead to a stronger smile.
Crooked teeth can cause uneven wear on your enamel. Some teeth take on too much pressure when your bite doesn’t line up. This can lead to chipping, cracking, or wearing down your teeth more quickly than normal. A balanced bite spreads the pressure evenly across your teeth, helping them last longer and stay stronger.
Another reason to straighten your teeth is to avoid jaw pain and headaches. Misaligned teeth can strain your jaw muscles, especially when you chew or talk. This tension can lead to frequent headaches, jaw clicking, or neck and shoulder pain. Aligning your bite can ease the strain and help you feel more comfortable throughout the day.
Your speech can improve, too. The position of your teeth plays a big role in how you form sounds. You may have trouble pronouncing certain words if your teeth are out of place. Straightening your teeth can help your lips and tongue move more freely, making it easier to speak with confidence.
And of course, one of the biggest benefits is the confidence boost that comes with a straighter smile. Many people feel shy or nervous about their crooked teeth. They might hide their smile or avoid speaking in public. When your teeth are straight, you’re more likely to smile, laugh, and feel comfortable in social settings. That confidence can carry over into your schoolwork, job, or everyday interactions.
Finally, straight teeth can help you avoid serious dental problems in the future. They’re easier to care for, less likely to get damaged, and help your jaw stay aligned properly. Investing in orthodontic treatment can save you time, money, and stress later.
Solutions for Crooked Teeth
The first step toward a straighter smile involves a comprehensive dental health exam. Our team will thoroughly evaluate your teeth and bite pattern to determine the best course of action. We will then either devise a long-term orthodontic plan involving braces or a short-term orthodontic plan, which could include Invisalign clear aligners. Our team is happy to help you find feasible and effective solutions to achieve a straighter, healthier smile.
Crooked Teeth FAQs
Crooked teeth can impact many things when it comes to your oral health and wellness. Learn more.
Can crooked teeth get worse over time?
Yes, crooked teeth often get worse if you don’t treat them. As you grow or age, your teeth can shift even more. This can lead to more crowding, bite problems, or damage to nearby teeth. Getting treatment early can help prevent these issues and make straightening your teeth easier.
Are crooked teeth more likely to get cavities?
Yes, they are. Cleaning between crooked teeth is harder, so plaque and bacteria can build up more easily. This increases your risk for cavities and gum disease. Straightening your teeth helps keep your mouth healthier and makes brushing and flossing more effective.
How long does it take to fix crooked teeth?
Treatment time depends on how crooked your teeth are and your method. Some people see results in six months, while others may need two or more years. Braces usually take longer than clear aligners, but both options work well. Your orthodontist will create a plan that fits your needs.
Are crooked teeth always noticeable?
Not always. Some people have minor crowding or spacing that’s hard to see, especially in the back teeth. Others may have visible crooked front teeth that affect their smile. Even if they’re not obvious, crooked teeth can still cause problems and may need treatment.
Is it painful to fix crooked teeth?
You may feel discomfort when you first get braces or aligners, and after adjustments. This pressure means your teeth are moving, which is a good sign. The pain is usually mild and goes away in a few days. Your orthodontist can give you tips to ease the soreness.
Can I still eat normally with crooked teeth?
You can eat most foods, but crooked teeth can make chewing harder. Food might get stuck more easily, and you may need to chew more carefully. After straightening your teeth, you’ll find eating and cleaning your mouth much easier. Good dental health helps you enjoy meals without stress.