Crooked teeth are a common dental concern that can affect people of all ages. Some people may have just one or two teeth that are slightly out of place, while others may have more serious crowding or alignment problems. Whether your crooked teeth bother you because of the way they look or because they cause other issues in your mouth, some treatments can help. Dr. Efthimios Koveos treats crooked teeth in Sarasota, FL, helping patients improve both the look of their smiles and their overall dental health. At Integrated Dental, Dr. Koveos offers personalized care to straighten teeth and boost your confidence.
Why Do I Have Crooked Teeth?
Crooked teeth are a common dental issue, and many people wonder why their teeth didn’t grow in straight. The truth is, there are several reasons why teeth can become crooked over time. Some causes are related to genetics, while others have to do with habits or injuries.
Genetics
If your parents or grandparents had crooked or crowded teeth, you may have inherited the same traits. Sometimes, people are born with a smaller jaw and there isn’t enough space for all their teeth to grow in straight. This can lead to teeth crowding or pushing against each other, which causes them to shift out of alignment.
Childhood Habits
Certain habits during childhood can also affect how teeth grow. Thumb sucking, using a pacifier for too long, or constantly breathing through the mouth can all impact how the teeth and jaw develop. If a child loses baby teeth too early or keeps them too long, the permanent teeth might not have enough room to grow in properly, causing them to come in crooked.
Injuries or Accidents
Sometimes a dental injury or accident can cause teeth to shift out of place. For example, if you get hit in the mouth while playing sports or fall and injure your jaw, your teeth may move or become misaligned. Even if a tooth doesn’t fall out, the pressure from the injury can still affect the position of nearby teeth.
What Problems Can Crooked Teeth Cause?
Crooked teeth can lead to more than just cosmetic concerns. They can cause real problems for your dental health if left untreated. When teeth are crowded or out of alignment, it can be harder to keep them clean. Food particles and plaque can collect in tight or hard-to-reach spaces, leading to a higher risk of cavities and gum disease. Over time, this can result in tooth decay, gum infections, or even tooth loss.
Another problem that can come with crooked teeth is difficulty chewing. If your bite is uneven or your teeth don’t line up correctly, you may have trouble biting into foods or chewing properly. This can also put extra pressure on certain teeth, which may wear them down faster or cause pain in the jaw. In some cases, crooked teeth can contribute to jaw problems like TMJ, which can lead to headaches, sore muscles, and jaw clicking or popping.
Speech issues are another possible side effect of misaligned teeth. If your front teeth are very crooked or spaced out, you may find it harder to pronounce certain sounds. This can be frustrating, especially for children or teens who are learning to speak clearly. Fixing crooked teeth can help improve speech and boost confidence.
Treating Crooked Teeth at Integrated Dental
At Integrated Dental, Dr. Koveos offers several solutions to treat crooked teeth. The best treatment option depends on how crooked your teeth are, how healthy your mouth is, and what results you’re looking for. Dr. Koveos will perform a full dental exam and discuss your goals before recommending the right plan for you.
Veneers
Veneers can be a great solution for patients with minor cosmetic issues. They’re thin shells made of porcelain or a tooth-colored material that are placed on the front of the teeth. Porcelain veneers are designed to look natural and blend in with the rest of your smile. Veneers can cover up small gaps, make teeth appear straighter, and give your smile a more uniform appearance. The process is quick, and results are often dramatic.
Bonding
Another option for fixing slightly crooked teeth is dental bonding. Teeth bonding uses a tooth-colored resin to reshape or build up parts of a tooth. If one tooth is shorter than the others or angled slightly, bonding can make it look straighter. This treatment is fast and affordable and can often be completed in just one visit. Bonding is a good choice for small changes, especially in the front teeth.
Orthodontics
Orthodontic treatment may be the best option for more moderate to severe cases. At Integrated Dental, Dr. Koveos works closely with local orthodontists to refer patients who need this type of care. Braces or clear aligners can help if you have bite issues, severe crowding, or rotated teeth.
Orthodontic care can take time, but the results are long-lasting and often life-changing. Many patients who complete orthodontic treatment find that they not only feel better about their smile but also enjoy better dental health and improved function.
Schedule an Appointment
Call our office today at 941-270-9755. You can also request an appointment to learn more about your options for treating crooked teeth. Dr. Koveos and the team at Integrated Dental are ready to help you take the first step toward a straighter, healthier smile.