You may have noticed that your teeth are not perfectly straight. In fact, according to a study, minor malocclusion has a prevalence rate of 39% to 90% among children and adolescents. While some people may feel self-conscious about their crooked teeth, there are several perfectly good reasons why your teeth may not be perfectly aligned. Here are five of them.
Genetics
One of the most common reasons for crooked teeth is genetics. You will likely have crooked teeth if your parents or grandparents have crooked teeth, and this is because your genes determine the shape and size of your teeth. Unfortunately, you can do nothing to prevent this from happening, but you can seek treatment to improve the alignment of your teeth. Here are some of the most common options:
Invisible Braces
Braces play a massive role in correcting teeth alignment, and there are now more discreet options, such as invisible braces, also known as Invisalign. Invisalign braces are made from clear or tooth-colored materials, making them much less noticeable than traditional metal braces. In addition, they are also more comfortable to wear since they do not have any brackets or wires that can rub against your gums.
Headgear
Another standard treatment for crooked teeth is headgear, a device that helps to align your teeth and jaw. Headgear is usually worn at night while you sleep, consisting of a metal frame that attaches to your teeth and a strap around your head. While headgear can effectively treat crooked teeth, it can be uncomfortable to wear and may take some time to get used to.
Jaw Surgery
If your teeth are severely misaligned, you may need to undergo jaw surgery, which realigns your upper and lower jaws. Jaw surgery is usually only recommended for severe cases of malocclusion, and it can be costly. In addition, it is major surgery with a long recovery period, so it is not a decision to be made lightly.
Trauma
Another common reason for crooked teeth is trauma to the mouth. This can occur from a fall, a blow to the face, or even from biting down on something hard. Trauma can cause your teeth to become loose, displaced, or even fractured. In some cases, trauma can also cause your jaws to misalign. Again, while you can do nothing to prevent this type of injury, you can seek treatment to improve the alignment of your teeth and jaws.
Poor Oral Hygiene
Believe it or not, poor oral hygiene can lead to crooked teeth. It’s because plaque and tartar buildup on your teeth can cause them to become misaligned over time. It’s why brushing and flossing regularly and seeing your dentist for regular cleanings are so important. Keeping your mouth clean can help prevent your teeth from becoming crooked. Here are also some other options when improving your oral hygiene:
Mouthwash
Mouthwash is a great way to keep your mouth clean and free of plaque and tartar. Be sure to use a mouthwash that contains fluoride, as this will help to prevent tooth decay.
Water Pick
A water pick is another great way to keep your teeth clean. A water pick uses a stream of water to remove plaque and tartar from your teeth. It’s a great way to keep your mouth clean and gentle on your gums.
Smoking
Smoking is not only bad for your health, but it’s also bad for your teeth. Smoking can cause staining and discoloration of your teeth over time. In addition, smoking has been shown to contribute to gum disease, which can lead to crooked teeth. If you want to protect your oral health, quitting smoking is one of the best things you can do. If you’re struggling to quit smoking, consider these options:
E-cigarettes
E-cigarettes are a popular option for people trying to quit smoking. E-cigarettes do not contain tobacco, and they produce vapor instead of smoke. This makes them much less harmful to your teeth and gums.
Nicotine gum
Nicotine gum is another option for those trying to quit smoking. It contains nicotine, which can help to reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms.
Nicotine patches
Nicotine patches are yet another option for people trying to quit smoking. They work by releasing nicotine into your body through your skin. This can help to reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms.
Tongue Thrusting
Tongue thrusting is a condition where the tongue protrudes beyond the front teeth when speaking or swallowing. This can cause the front teeth to become misaligned over time. If you suspect that you may have tongue thrusting, please consult with your dentist or orthodontist so they can properly diagnose and treat the condition.
While nobody likes having crooked teeth, there are several perfectly good reasons why they may not be perfectly aligned. However, there are also numerous ways to handle them. By choosing the right solution for you, you can improve your oral health and the appearance of your smile.
