What causes crowded teeth?
Crowded teeth, also known as malocclusions, is one of the most common dental problems. Learn the various reasons why you might have crowded teeth.
Genetic factors
Genetic factors determine the size and shape of your jaw and teeth. For example, if you inherit a small jaw but larger teeth from your parents, there’s not enough space for all teeth to align properly, leading to crowding.
Genetics can also influence tooth eruption patterns, which can contribute to misalignment.
Tooth size discrepancy
The size and shape of your teeth matters too. Teeth that are disproportionately sized may not fit well within a person’s jaw, leading to overcrowding.
Early loss of baby teeth
Did you know that your baby teeth act as space holders, to ensure there’s enough room for adult teeth to erupt in their correct positions? If we lose our baby teeth prematurely due to decay, trauma or an extraction, it causes the surrounding teeth to shift into those empty spaces, and disrupt the natural alignment of your teeth.
Bad habits
Sometimes, crowded teeth may be caused by bad habits like thumb-sucking or tongue thrusting. For instance, sucking your thumb can exert constant pressure on developing teeth and lead to changes in your teeth’s alignment.
Can teeth crowding cause pain?
How does having crowded teeth lead to discomfort?
You may experience some pain and discomfort if you have crowded teeth. As your teeth are misaligned, this can cause uneven pressure on the teeth, leading to discomfort and pain. If you have overlapping teeth, it may actually be more challenging to clean between the teeth and along the gumline.
How do we reduce the pain of teeth crowding?
Orthodontic treatment and good oral hygiene practices can help in reducing discomfort for your teeth. It’s always best to seek your treating dentist’s advice to minimise any pain you may be experiencing.
What are some treatment options for crowded teeth?
The good news? Overcrowded or overlapping teeth can be treated effectively, so you can start smiling with more confidence! Here are some methods for treating crowded teeth.
Traditional braces
To correct crowded teeth and other teeth misalignments, traditional braces are a common orthodontic treatment. They exert constant pressure on your teeth to shift your teeth into their correct positions.
Clear aligners
While traditional braces are a popular option for getting straighter teeth, clear aligners offer a more discreet alternative to treat crowded teeth. Using a series of custom-made, removable trays to gradually move and align teeth, Invisible Braces can fix mild to severe cases of crowding.
Retainers
After Invisible Braces treatment, retainers are used to stabilise teeth into their correct positions. As natural forces of chewing and talking may cause teeth to shift, it’s crucial for patients to wear their retainers to maintain their straight smiles.
Tooth extractions
As it’s best to preserve natural teeth wherever possible, tooth extractions are typically not the first choice for managing crowded teeth. However, your treating dentist may recommend extracting teeth to create space so that teeth can align properly, or to address bite problems such as overbites or underbites.
For those seeking a next-level solution, Zenyum Invisible Braces work to straighten teeth with visible results. With cutting-edge technology and personalised treatment plans, Zenyum works with trusted experts to make your journey to a straighter smile a more comfortable and convenient experience.
Overcoming crowded teeth
In conclusion, fixing crowded teeth not only helps your smile look better, it’s also a crucial step towards maintaining optimal oral health and overall well-being. By understanding the causes, potential discomfort, and available treatment options, you can make the best decisions for achieving a confident smile this year.
