The Causes of Crooked Teeth and How Orthodontics Can Help

Teeth crookedness isn’t a rare occurrence. In fact, crooked teeth are found in up to 75 percent of the population. There are several different causes that can lead to crooked teeth, and it’s important to understand them in order to effectively get treatment. In this blog, our orthodontics in New Jersey will tell you about the causes of crooked teeth and how orthodontics can help you with this.

What are Crooked Teeth?

Crooked teeth are a common issue, and it can cause an individual to feel embarrassed about their smile. It occurs when the teeth are crooked, overlapping, or wrongly aligned. This can lead to bite misalignment, crowding of teeth, and even crooked jawbones.

Common Causes of Crooked Teeth

#1 – Genetics

Genetics can be an important factor in teeth crookedness. This means that crookedness may run in families and certain crookedness patterns may be passed down from generation to generation. This cause is inevitable but learning about it is the first step to understanding crooked teeth.

#2 – Bad Habits

Habitual behaviors can also contribute to crooked teeth. Some of the common habits that can lead to crookedness include thumb sucking, pacifier use, and tongue thrusting. Most of these begin in childhood so parents need to be aware of their child’s habits. If you witness any of these behaviors, it’s best to take action right away to help prevent crooked teeth.

#3 – Poor Oral Care

Poor oral care can also lead to crooked teeth. This happens because if plaque and tartar build up on the teeth, it can cause crookedness. Plaque and tartar can also lead to cavities, which can cause crookedness. It’s important to brush and floss your teeth regularly to help prevent crookedness from poor oral hygiene.

#4 – Trauma to the Mouth Leading to Crooked Teeth

Trauma to the mouth can also lead to crooked teeth. This includes anything from a fall, sports injury, or even a car accident. If you or your child has experienced trauma to the mouth, it’s important to visit a dentist or orthodontist right away to assess the damage and determine if crookedness has occurred.

How Orthodontics Can Help

Once you understand the cause of crooked teeth, it’s important to take action to correct crookedness. Orthodontics is a field of dentistry that specializes in correcting teeth crookedness and aligning the bite. An orthodontist will be able to determine the best course of treatment to help correct misalignment.

Some of the most common and effective ways to correct teeth crookedness are traditional braces and Invisalign in New Jersey. Braces come in more forms than one and each type of brace can be tailored to meet your individual needs and preferences.

#1 – Traditional Metal Braces

Traditional metal braces use metal brackets and wires to help move the teeth into proper alignment. They are an effective way to correct crooked teeth, as they can treat even the most severe cases. Metal braces work by applying continuous pressure to the teeth to slowly move them into the desired position.

During treatment, your orthodontist will schedule regular appointments to adjust the braces and make sure the teeth are moving in the right direction. This process can take anywhere from 12-24 months, depending on the severity of the case. With metal braces, you have the option of adding colored elastics (rubber bands) for a more unique and colorful smile.

#2 – Self-Ligating Braces for Crooked Teeth

Self-ligating braces are another type of brace that helps to correct crooked teeth. These braces use advanced technology that eliminates the need for traditional elastics. Instead, they use a slide mechanism that allows the wire to move freely within the bracket and apply pressure without the need for elastics.

Self-ligating braces also require fewer adjustments throughout the course of treatment. This leads to shorter appointments and shorter overall treatment time (12-18 months). They are available in metal, ceramic, or clear brackets.

#3 – Clear (Ceramic) Braces

Clear (ceramic) braces are similar to traditional metal braces, except they use clear brackets instead of metal. This makes them virtually invisible on the teeth and helps to create a more discreet look for those who are self-conscious about their crooked teeth.

Clear (ceramic) braces work in the same way as metal braces, by using pressure to move the teeth. However, they may not be recommended in severe cases and can require additional care and maintenance.

#4 – Invisalign Clear Aligners

Invisalign is an alternative treatment to traditional braces. It uses a series of clear aligners that are custom-made for each individual patient. The aligners are removable, making them convenient and comfortable to wear.

Invisalign works by gradually shifting the teeth into place through the use of pressure applied by the aligners. Treatment time is typically shorter than with other braces, anywhere from 12-18 months.

Consult a Trusted Orthodontist in New Jersey

The best thing you can do to determine the best treatment for you is to get a comprehensive assessment from Dr. Robert Lorino or Dr. Gi Gi Paralkar at Smiles by Lorino in New Jersey. They will evaluate your crooked teeth and provide you with the best treatment plan.

At Smiles by Lorino, we use the latest technologies and techniques to provide patients with the highest quality of care. You can choose among traditional metal braces, self-ligating braces, clear (ceramic) braces, or Invisalign to correct misalignments. We will work with you to create a personalized treatment plan so you can achieve a beautiful, straight smile.

Our five offices are located in Franklin Lakes, Long Hill, Belleville, Wayne, and Kearny, New Jersey. Contact us today and book an appointment to learn more about orthodontic issues and how our treatment options can help!