How do you Treat Teeth Crowding?

 

Having insufficient space in the jaw to accommodate all teeth in proper arch form is known as teeth crowding. The causes could be genetic factors, early loss of baby teeth, improper eruption patterns, or jaw development issues. The treatment for teeth crowding intends to create adequate space, proper alignment, improve function, and help with aesthetics.

 

Clinical Examination

 

  1. Inspection of the position of the teeth, bite, and size of the jaw.
  2. Evaluation of oral habits, such as thumb-sucking.

Radiographic Imaging

 

  1. A panoramic X-ray will be needed to view tooth roots, eruption patterns, and bone structure. This X-ray will include the entire mouth.
  2. Cephalometric imaging includes the entire head, teeth, jaw, facial bones, and soft tissue. It might be recommended depending on the case.

Non-Extraction Approaches

 

For children and teens, a palatal expander could be used to expand the upper jaw to create more space for their teeth. This is most effective before mid-palatal suture fusion when the two halves of the hard palate unite. For adults, braces or aligners make the arch slightly wider, depending on the biological limits. It might be possible to create some space for teeth crowding with minimal enamel reshaping between teeth, often used with aligners. Another non-extraction approach is moving molars backward or moving tilted teeth to gain space.

 

Extraction Approaches

 

When crowding is severe or arch expansion is limited, extraction of one or more teeth might be necessary. When extractions are needed, removing the first premolars will free significant space for alignment. If the bite is too crowded or unstable, removing canines or third molars might be another option. When all the extractions are done and healed, braces or aligners will help move teeth to close gaps and create an ideal alignment.

 

Orthodontic Treatment

 

Orthodontic treatment will depend on age, severity, and patient preference. Traditional braces are brackets made out of metal or ceramic and use wires to connect the teeth. This treatment is effective for moderate to severe cases and provides control of difficult tooth movements. Another orthodontic option is clear aligners. They are removable, clear trays made from a mold of your teeth. These are effective for mild to moderate cases of crowding. Lingual braces are another option. They are placed on the inner surface of the teeth and are a cosmetic alternative for crowding, spacing, and bite problems. After your braces or aligners are removed, continuing your post-treatment instructions prevents relapse. A retainer will be part of your treatment full-time, and eventually, it will only be needed at night.

 

Reach out for support

 

After having all your evaluations done with your dentist and orthodontist, a plan of action is needed. Even as a child, an orthodontist could guide your jaw and teeth to create a proper arch. As an adult, your dentist will refer you to an orthodontist to address the crowding issue. If you have any questions or concerns, we are here to help. Don’t hesitate to get in touch with our office for an appointment.

Related Article: Can Crowded Teeth Get Worse?