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Crowded Teeth Causes,
Symptoms and treatments

Crowded teeth, also known as dental crowding, is a common dental issue marked by insufficient space in the jaw for all teeth to align properly. This lack of space often results in teeth becoming crooked, misaligned, or overlapping. While crowded teeth can affect the appearance of your smile, they can also lead to several dental health problems if left untreated. At Thames, Dr Bravis and her specialist team provides advanced dental treatments tailored to address crowded teeth and associated symptoms effectively.

Symptoms and causes

Crowded teeth can occur due to a variety of reasons, including:

Genetics: Family history of crowded teeth can increase the likelihood of experiencing similar dental conditions.
Childhood Growth: Factors during childhood, such as thumb sucking and jaw development, can influence tooth alignment.
Early Tooth Loss: Premature loss of baby teeth can disrupt the alignment of permanent teeth.
Jaw Shape and Size: Variations in jaw size and shape can impact the available space for teeth.
Delayed Tooth Eruption: Delayed eruption of permanent teeth can contribute to crowding as existing teeth occupy space.

Related treatments

Treatment options for crowded teeth may include:

Braces: Traditional braces gradually shift misaligned teeth into proper alignment.
Invisalign: Clear aligners provide a discreet alternative for mild to moderate cases of crowding.
Tooth Extraction: Removal of one or more teeth may be necessary to create space and address crowding.
Palatal Expander: Used to widen the upper jaw and create additional space for teeth.
Surgery: Surgical intervention for extreme cases involving significant jaw irregularities.

When to see a dentist?

If you experience symptoms like tooth discomfort, difficulty cleaning between teeth, speech problems, or self-esteem issues due to crowded teeth, we recommend scheduling a consultation with Dr Bravis. Early intervention can prevent complications and improve both dental health and aesthetics.

Frequently Asked Questions

What causes crowded teeth?

Crowded teeth can be caused by various factors, including genetic predisposition, childhood habits like thumb sucking, early loss of baby teeth, jaw size and shape, and delayed tooth eruption. These factors can contribute to insufficient space in the jaw, leading to misalignment and overlapping of teeth.

Can crowded teeth be prevented?

While some causes of crowded teeth, such as genetics, cannot be prevented, there are steps you can take to minimise the risk and severity of crowding. Maintaining good oral hygiene habits, addressing dental concerns early, and attending routine dental check-ups can help prevent or minimise crowded teeth. It’s also essential to avoid habits like thumb sucking and to monitor tooth development during childhood.

How can I fix crowded teeth at home?

While professional treatment is often necessary to effectively address crowded teeth, there are limited options for at-home management. Maintaining good oral hygiene practices, such as brushing and flossing regularly, can help prevent complications associated with crowded teeth, such as tooth decay and gum disease. However, for significant alignment issues, it’s essential to consult with a dentist or orthodontist for appropriate treatment options.

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Crowded Teeth Causes, Symptoms and treatments