This article explores tooth crowding, the issues it can cause and the steps a dentist can take to address this problem. Read on to discover more!
What is tooth crowding?
Tooth crowding is a condition that occurs when there isn't enough space in your oral cavity for your teeth. It can cause a variety of problems. People with crowded teeth may have difficulty chewing food properly or biting down forcefully. They may also experience pain in their jaw muscles and headaches. In severe cases, tooth crowding can lead to gum disease and even tooth loss.
Who is affected by tooth crowding?
Tooth crowding can affect people of any age. It's most common in young children and teens because their teeth and jaws are still developing. However, many adults also experience tooth crowding due to misalignment or injury to their teeth.
How will a dentist treat tooth crowding?
At first, your dentist will need to thoroughly examine your mouth to determine if your teeth are crowded and what is causing the problem. Once they have an idea about what's going on, they will recommend a treatment plan just for you. Your treatment plan may include the use of braces or surgery.
Braces
Braces are a standard treatment for tooth crowding. They work by applying gentle but persistent pressure on your teeth so they move into the correct position. This can be done using metal braces, clear braces, or Invisalign aligners. Your dentist will create a custom treatment plan for you that will include the number of hours per day you should aim to wear your braces for and how often you need to visit the dentist for adjustments. Most people need to wear braces for months to achieve their treatment aims. During this time, your dentist will review the movement of your teeth and may make minor adjustments to the braces to keep things on track.
Surgery
In some cases, surgery may be necessary to correct tooth crowding. This involves removing some teeth to create space in your mouth. The surgery is usually performed in an outpatient setting. The dentist will inject anaesthetic into your gums to numb them before getting to work on removing teeth. Once some of your teeth have been removed, your dentist may fit you with a brace. The brace will encourage the remaining teeth to move and fill the newly created space.
If you are experiencing problems with tooth crowding, be sure to consult your dentist. They will work with you to create a treatment plan that is just right for you.
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