I'm Dr. Dao at Healthy Smiles Dental, and I'd like to answer the most common question about crowded teeth. What are crowded teeth, and how can we help to improve them?
What causes crowded teeth and how does it affect oral health?
Crowded teeth occur when the arch is small and doesn't have enough space for the teeth, causing them to overlap. Another reason can be the size of the teeth; if they are larger than normal or erupt at the wrong time, they can cause crowding. This affects oral health by making it difficult to clean certain areas, leading to trapped food, bacterial growth, inflammation, infection, cavities, gum disease, and potential bone loss or loose teeth.
What is the difference between mild, moderate, and severe teeth crowding?
We classify crowded teeth into three categories: mild, moderate, and severe. Mild crowding involves teeth overlapping by 0 to 3 mm. Moderate crowding is 4 to 6 mm, and severe crowding is more than 7 mm of space needed for the teeth.
How does bottom teeth crowding differ from upper teeth crowding?
The difference is usually due to the space available. For bottom teeth crowding, the top teeth can block the bottom teeth from moving forward, causing them to become jammed. Upper teeth crowding can result from insufficient space or a small arch. Sometimes, tight lips can push the teeth inward, causing crowding.
What are the treatment options for fixing crowded teeth?
The first step is ensuring the arch is developed correctly. We can then align the teeth using traditional braces, aligners like Invisalign, or crown and bridge work. Sometimes a combination of these treatments is necessary.
How do braces help correct crowding?
Braces are effective because they help expand and shape the arch correctly. They use wires to gradually mold the arch, creating enough space for the crowded teeth. Braces also guide the teeth and bone to move into the right shape, providing space for the crowded teeth.
Can Invisalign fix crowded teeth, or is traditional orthodontic treatment better?
Invisalign can treat crowded teeth, but its effectiveness depends on the severity of the crowding. For mild cases, Invisalign works well. However, for severe cases, traditional braces might be more effective, as they can better guide and open up the arch.
How does dental crowding impact a person's bite and overall alignment?
Crowding can cause teeth to rotate or tip, leading to improper biting and increased risk of cavities due to poor hygiene. It also affects a person's appearance and confidence, as crowded teeth are visible when speaking or smiling.
What should patients expect before and after crowding treatment?
Before and after treatment, patients can expect cleaner, easier-to-maintain teeth and a better appearance. Treatment often leads to increased confidence and a more frequent smile, contributing to a happier and healthier life.
How long does it take to correct severe crowding?
Correcting crowding typically takes 12 to 15 months, depending on the severity. We aim for at least 12 months for mild cases, while severe cases may take up to 18 months.
Are there specific challenges with treating lower teeth crowding?
Treating lower crowding can be challenging due to the position of the top teeth and tight lips, which may require adjustments to create space. Additionally, a large tongue can make it uncomfortable and difficult to clean, leading to further issues.
What happens if crowded teeth are left untreated?
Untreated crowded teeth can lead to cavities, gum disease, inflammation, and potential tooth loss. It can also affect confidence and how one smiles and talks.
If you have any questions about orthodontic treatments or are ready to take action, please call us at (724) 308-9360. We are here to help and happy to assist. Thank you very much.