You may think that crooked teeth are only a cosmetic problem. And sometimes, you may be right. However, crooked teeth can also cause problems with your bite and other issues. Dr. Greg Reece of Dentistry in the Queen City, a dentist in Charlotte, NC, explains why treating crooked teeth is so important.
The Aesthetic Value
While crooked teeth aren’t solely a cosmetic problem, cosmetic reasons exist to take care of a crooked smile. With crooked teeth, you may find you’re trying to hide your smile instead of showing it off. Even with your mouth closed, having a prominent tooth pushed forward by the others can still appear even when you aren’t smiling.
They’re Harder to Clean
When your teeth are crooked, they can create tighter nooks and crannies in your mouth. Crooked teeth overlap and get pushed together, creating places for bacteria to hide. Even if you’re following a strict brushing and flossing regimen, it can be difficult to clean out these areas. This puts you at a higher risk for tooth decay and needing dental fillings.
They Impact Your Bite
Crooked teeth can lead to a misaligned bite. When your teeth come together at the wrong angle, this can make you more likely to develop things like bruxism. Your teeth can get worn down from grinding them, making you at a higher risk for damaged teeth. Your teeth must come together at the right angle so that the pressure from your bite is distributed correctly.
Treating Crooked Teeth
There are many ways to take care of crooked teeth. One of the most common is Invisalign. Invisalign uses clear aligners that are customized to fit your smile. They slowly move and shift your teeth into the correct alignment. Invisalign is a more comfortable alternative to metal braces with a shorter treatment time. You can also remove the aligners to brush your teeth and eat, so you have no restrictions.
Porcelain veneers can provide a solution if your crooked teeth are mainly an aesthetic issue. They’re made of thin shells of a high-quality dental ceramic covering your tooth’s front and sides. Veneers are custom-made, so they can be designed to cover gaps in your smile or hide a tooth that’s crooked or misshapen.
Dental bonding is a more cost-effective alternative to porcelain veneers. It’s made of a biocompatible resin shaped and molded to your teeth. It’s color-matched to your smile and can be hardened and polished so that it matches the natural sheen of your teeth. Bonding doesn’t last as long as veneers and can be ideal for someone unsure about a permanent solution. Learn more about tooth bonding.
Straightening Teeth at Your Charlotte, North Carolina Dentist
Are you ready to get a straighter, healthier smile? Call us or schedule an appointment online to take care of your crooked teeth.