Many people feel embarrassed about their crooked teeth. There are many reasons teeth become crooked. Learning about the possible causes and seeking prompt dental or orthodontic treatment will prevent significant alignment issues from arising. 

Eight Possible Causes of Crooked Teeth

Misaligned teeth can cause more than an unattractive smile. They can also lead to problems with brushing and flossing. Before seeking orthodonticts, it is essential to survey the possible reasons so patients can seek the proper treatments. 

Genetics

Genetics undoubtedly plays a role in the development of crooked teeth. Genetic concerns like jaw size, jaw shape, overcrowding, overbites, and underbites can all play a role in causing misaligned teeth. These conditions are often passed down from family member to family member. 

Poor Oral Care Practices

Many people do not realize poor oral hygiene can impact the alignment of their teeth. Tooth decay can lead to loss. Once a person loses teeth, their surviving teeth shift, causing alignment issues that can mar their smiles. 

Early Tooth Loss

Early tooth loss also impacts alignment because it can cause the other baby teeth to move into improper positions and prevent the normal eruption of adult teeth. Premature tooth loss can also sometimes impact jaw growth. 

Thumb Sucking

Many people have crooked teeth because they were thumb-suckers as children. Thumb sucking causes the teeth to move out of alignment and sometimes protrude beyond the lips, leading to the need for orthodontic intervention. 

Tongue Thrusting

Normal swallowing involves placing the tongue on the roof of the mouth. Some people have abnormal swallowing and thrust their tongue forward into the teeth. Over time, tongue thrusting can push the teeth abnormally forward, leading to alignment issues. 

Malnutrition

Poor nutrition can also play a role in the development of alignment issues. If the body does not get the nutrients it needs, alignment issues can occur because of weak teeth and bone tissue.

Mouth Breathing

Children who mouth breathe may develop alignment issues with their teeth. Regular mouth breathing, especially while sleeping, can impact the formation of the jaws and lead to misalignments. 

Trauma

Injuries to the mouth can have a lasting impact on alignment. Sports injuries are a common cause of problems with alignment, which is why it is so critical for children to wear mouth protection while playing sports. 

How Does the Dentist Fix Teeth Alignment Issues?

Teeth alignment problems can have lasting complications, including an increased risk of developing gum disease and tooth decay. Brushing and flossing become challenging when the teeth are not correctly aligned. 

Thankfully, there are many options for correcting alignment issues, including braces and Invisalign. Prompt treatment is crucial for helping people of all ages overcome tooth alignment issues and achieve more beautiful smiles. 

Schedule a Consultation

Scheduling a consultation with the dentist or orthodontist is one of the first steps toward overcoming alignment issues. Orthodontic treatments can treat alignment issues, no matter the underlying cause. 

During a consultation, the dentist or orthodontist will examine the patient’s smile and take X-rays. The examination allows the dentist to check for underlying oral health issues contributing to alignment concerns. Orthodontic treatments can help improve alignment issues and make smiles look more beautiful. Now is the time to seek intervention to uncover the beauty of your smile. Schedule an appointment today to get started. 

Do you or a loved one have crooked teeth? 

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