What Causes Crooked Teeth?

When a parent walks into an orthodontic office, they might ask, "Why are my child's teeth crooked?" Unfortunately, there isn't a single and simple response to this query, but you can try a clear aligner in Plantation, FL, to address this dental problem. Crooked teeth may be caused by various factors, including genetics, abnormal jaw growth, patient behaviors, blocked airways/chronic mouth breathing, and other severe oral health issues.  

Crooked Teeth: Its Causes and Drawbacks  

Causes  

• Facial Trauma  

An improper bite or crooked teeth may result from facial trauma, such as a jaw injury during childhood. The teeth grow crookedly due to the jaw shifting slightly from its initial position. Tooth loss can also result from facial injuries. Additionally, the remaining teeth tend to move to fill gaps in the jaws.  

• Genetics  

Parents frequently pass on their crooked teeth to their children. Despite having strong oral hygiene practices, children who inherit the condition of crooked teeth are also likely to have crooked permanent teeth.  

• Misaligned Teeth  

Malocclusion, often known as misalignment of teeth, is brought on by abnormally tiny upper or lower jaws. Overbite and underbite are problems brought on by misaligned jaws. An underbite causes the lower set of teeth to protrude over the upper teeth, whereas an overbite causes the opposite.  

• Tongue Thrust  

Tongue thrusting has the same negative dental effects as thumb sucking. It may lead to mismatched bites, particularly an overbite with upper teeth that protrude outward.  

• Thumb Sucking  

Kids that suck their thumbs for a long time frequently develop crooked teeth. The teeth grow crooked, especially outwards, due to the constant pressure from the thumb on the still-developing gums. If this practice is kept up until the toddler years, the likelihood of developing crooked teeth increases.  

Issues Caused by Crooked Teeth

• Poor Self-Esteem - Since our smiles reflect our personalities, those with misaligned or crooked teeth often experience low self-esteem. Furthermore, unattractive discolored teeth that make people feel ashamed might indicate poor oral health.  

• Gum Disease - Caring for your teeth when crowded or misaligned is difficult. Gum disease, tooth decay, plaque, and bad breath are consequences of poor dental and oral health over time. When the gums are red, swollen, and itching, you may be experiencing gingivitis, the first stage of gum disease. Another indication of gum disease is bleeding gums. However, if gingivitis is not treated, it develops into periodontitis, when the issue spreads to the bone and causes tooth and bone loss.  

• Wear and Tear - Misaligned teeth are more vulnerable to wear and damage. However, the issue goes beyond simple wear and tear. Excessive wear and tear frequently cause TMJ problems, also known as temporomandibular jaw disorder, in which patients complain of excruciating discomfort or even jawbone locking when moving.  

Getting a Clear Aligner in Plantation, FL, Can Treat Your Crooked Teeth

You will have to switch between different molds made by your orthodontist until your teeth finally move into the proper place. Since clear aligners are nearly invisible, adults frequently opt for this treatment.  

Make an appointment with the professionals at Midtown Dental Studio if you believe that your crooked teeth may be seriously affecting your health or if you want a straighter, healthier smile.