What is the Impact of Crowded teeth?

July 15, 2019

Crowded teeth happen when there’s not enough room in your jaw for all your teeth to erupt. The teeth may push against each other and become crooked. Typically, teeth on your lower jaw are the ones that become crowded.

The bone that supports your lower teeth happens to be the thinnest in the skull, making these teeth more likely to shift and become crowded or cooked. But are crowded teeth a problem, and how do they impact your smile?

Improper Tooth Alignment

When the teeth don’t align properly, they can cause issues with your bite. An improper bite is also referred to as a malocclusion.

While it may not seem like a big deal if your teeth don’t align properly, the truth is that having a bad bite has more of an impact than you think. Improper alignment can make it harder for you to bite and chew, which can cause issues when eating and even speaking properly [1]. Some patients may experience pain or discomfort as the result of improper alignment.

Fortunately, orthodontics provides a simple fix for most people who have crowded teeth so they can eat and speak with comfort.

Trouble with Oral Hygiene

Crowded teeth are typically more difficult to clean as a result of their position in the mouth. People who have crowded teeth are at higher risk to get tooth decay and gum disease, as plaque can hide in places that are impossible to reach at home with a toothbrush and floss [2]. Even teeth that are in their correct positions can leave room for plaque to hide, which is why regular professional cleanings with your dentist are necessary.

By correcting crowded teeth, you make it easier to keep on top of your oral care at home and reduce your risk for getting cavities and gum disease!

Issues with Self-Confidence

People who have crowded teeth are often self-conscious of their smiles whether or not people can see the affected teeth. For some people, they feel that crowded teeth can impact their entire appearance and impact their self-confidence.

Your orthodontist can develop an effective treatment plan to correct your teeth crowding for a more beautiful, functional smile. Orthodontic treatment can often improve patients’ confidence in their smiles, and allows them to not only interact more confidently with others, but to also feel good about how others perceive them [3].

Get a Consultation with Your Orthodontist!

If you have crowded or crooked teeth that have impacted your bite, your ability to care for your smile, or your self-confidence, it’s time to schedule a consultation with an orthodontist. You can ask your dentist for a referral, or look for an orthodontist in your area who has experience correcting crowded teeth.

You’re never too old to have the smile you deserve. Don’t live with the consequences of crowded teeth—you can have a healthier, more attractive smile with the right treatment from your professional orthodontist!