Canted Teeth: What Are They, and How Can You Fix Them?

August 22, 2023

Canted teeth, also known as tilted or slanted teeth, refer to dental misalignment where the teeth appear to be at an angle or incline instead of being in a straight, vertical position. This condition can affect both the aesthetics and function of the smile.

What causes canted teeth, and can they be fixed? Here, we look into how canted teeth happen and explore various treatment options to address this dental concern.

Causes of Canted Teeth

Canted teeth can result from a combination of factors, including:

Malocclusion. Also known as an improper bite, malocclusions such as crossbites, overbites, or underbites can contribute to the development of canted teeth [1].
Congenital factors. Genetic predisposition or inherited traits may cause certain individuals to be more prone to canted teeth.
Dental trauma. Accidents or injuries to the mouth, face, or jaw can lead to canted teeth. The impact may cause the teeth to shift or become misaligned, resulting in a slanted appearance.
Tooth loss. Loss of one or more teeth can disrupt the balance and alignment of the dental arch, causing adjacent teeth to tilt or shift.

Your dentist can help you determine potential causes for your canted teeth and if they could benefit from being fixed!

Treatment Options for Canted Teeth

The good news is that canted teeth can be treated. In some cases, canted teeth are solely a cosmetic concern and do not require treatment. However, if you are unhappy with your smile or have a misaligned bite contributing to canted teeth, there are numerous treatment options.

Braces or clear aligners, such as Invisalign, are common orthodontic methods used to correct canted teeth [2]. These appliances use gentle pressure to gradually shift the teeth into their proper positions, allowing for improved alignment and symmetry.

In cases where canted teeth are caused by tooth loss or damage, restorative dental procedures like dental implants, bridges, or crowns can help restore the missing teeth and proper alignment. Dental veneers can also transform the appearance of canted teeth and straighten the visual alignment of your smile.

For some patients, minor tooth reshaping or dental contouring can be utilized to adjust the shape and position of canted teeth. Dental contouring involves removing small amounts of enamel to achieve a more symmetrical and harmonious smile [3].

Do You Have Canted Teeth?

Canted teeth can impact both the aesthetics and functionality of your smile. Fortunately, there are various treatment options available to improve your teeth if they are tilted. Do you have canted teeth and want to repair your smile? If so, talk to your dentist about your treatment options during your next visit!