The Science of Crooked Teeth and How to Correct Them

Did you know that straight teeth have become a symbol of wealth? In our culture, teeth are one of the first things people notice about you. A beautiful smile can convey confidence and success, while crooked teeth can make a person appear uneducated or less successful.

According to research, over 4 million people are wearing braces in America alone, 25% of whom are adults. You see, it’s not just the teenagers that are getting metal mouths. More and more adults are seeking out orthodontic treatment to perfect their smiles.

But what exactly is going on when your teeth are crooked? Let’s take a closer look at the science of crooked teeth and how to correct them.

The Science Behind Crooked Teeth

Crooked teeth, also called malocclusion, is a misalignment of the teeth. This can happen when the teeth don’t come together in the right way or when they’re not straight.

There are a few different types of crooked teeth, but the most common is well known as crowding. Crowding happens when there’s not enough space for all of your teeth in your mouth. Your teeth can start to tilt and shift, which eventually leads to crooked teeth.

What Causes Crooked Teeth?

There are a variety of reasons why teeth can become crooked. One common reason is genetics. If your parents or grandparents had crooked teeth, you may be more likely to have them as well.

Other causes include thumb sucking, pacifier use, mouth breathing, and injuries. Another reason your teeth are crooked could be that you have a misaligned jaw.

This can happen if your teeth don’t come in evenly or if you have an injury that changes the alignment of your jaw. Furthermore, teeth can become crooked if they’re too big for your mouth.

What’s the Best Crooked Teeth Treatment?

Now that you know the science behind why teeth become crooked, you may be wondering what the best treatment option is. Here are some of the best crooked teeth treatments.

Teeth Braces

The most common treatment for crooked teeth is teeth braces. Teeth braces are devices placed on the teeth to straighten them out. They work by putting pressure on the teeth and gradually moving them into place.

Braces can be made of metal, ceramic, or plastic and are so effective that even adults of up to 60 years are wearing them to correct their teeth. They’re attached to the teeth in different ways, depending on the severity of the teeth’s misalignment.

Braces are usually worn for a period of one to two years. During this time, it’s essential to keep up with regular teeth cleanings and check-ups.

If you have braces, you’ll need to avoid certain foods that can damage the braces or cause them to become loose. These include hard candy, gum, and popcorn. You’ll also need to be careful when brushing your teeth to avoid damaging the braces.

Teeth Aligners

There are two types of teeth aligners: clear and metal. Clear teeth aligners are made of plastic and are virtually invisible when worn.

Metal teeth aligners are also made of metal and are visible when worn. Both types of teeth aligners work by putting pressure on your teeth to move them into alignment.

Teeth aligners are usually worn for 20 to 22 hours a day. However, its crucial to remove them while eating. Most people will need to wear teeth aligners for at least six months, but the length of treatment varies from person to person.

If you’re considering teeth aligners, consult with an orthodontist or dentist to see if they’re right for you. They’re not suitable for everyone, and a professional will be able to advise you on whether they’re a good option for you.

Invisalign

Invisalign aligners are an excellent teeth-straightening option for people who want to avoid the appearance of metal braces.

Invisalign uses clear, plastic aligners that are virtually invisible when worn. The aligners are custom-made for each patient and gradually shift teeth into the desired position over time.

One of the best things about Invisalign is that it corrects a wide variety of teeth-straightening issues. Whether your teeth are crooked, gapped, or have shifted out of alignment, Invisalign can help. The treatment is also suitable for people of all ages, so it’s not too late if you need adult Invisalign aligners.

Jaw Surgery

In some cases, teeth can become so crooked that correcting with braces or aligners is almost impossible. In these cases, jaw surgery may be the only option. Jaw surgery is a type of orthognathic surgery that’s used to correct irregularities in the teeth and jaws.

The bones in the teeth and jaws are usually cut and reset into the desired position during jaw surgery. This type of surgery is usually only recommended for severe cases of teeth misalignment.

Dental Bonding

Dental Bonding is a cosmetic procedure that can fix cracked, chipped, or discolored teeth. This type of procedure uses a tooth-colored resin material bonded to the teeth.

Dental bonding is a small process that’s easily completed in one office visit and does not require the removal of any tooth structure. However, the results are usually not as long-lasting as other cosmetic procedures such as veneers or crowns.

What Are the Dangers of Crooked Teeth?

While teeth that are less than perfect might not seem like a big deal, they can actually have a significant impact on your overall health. Crooked teeth can lead to gum disease, tooth decay, excess teeth wear from grinding, and even headaches.

Apart from these, misaligned teeth can also make it difficult to chew and speak. As a result, you might find yourself feeling self-conscious or avoiding social situations. According to research, crooked teeth can have a profound impact on your mental health and finances.

Why Your Teeth are Crooked and How to Fix Them

In short, teeth can become crooked for a variety of reasons. Some teeth are crooked due to genetics, others to poor dental hygiene habits. However, there are ways to correct them. Working with an orthodontist can get the perfect smile you’ve always wanted.

We hope this article was helpful in better understanding the science of crooked teeth and how to correct them. If you’re looking for even more informative content, please check out our blog.