Twisted Teeth

For many, twisted or crooked teeth can be the result of a number of different factors. In some circumstances, some people’s mouths can simply be too small for their teeth; this overcrowds the mouth and results in the shifting of teeth. In other cases, the lower and upper jaw aren’t the same size, which can result in either an under or overbite.

There are a number of other factors that can contribute to twisted teeth, the most common of which include:

The early or improper loss of adult or baby teeth, causing new teeth to grow crooked without guidance of the baby teeth
Ill-fitting dental restorations (crowns or fillings)
Gum diseases such as gingivitis
Unwanted pressure placed on the teeth and gums

Injury that results in the misalignment of the jaw
Mouth or jaw tumours
Common oral recurrences in children such as thumb sucking, tongue thrusting, using a dummy after the age of three, or persistent bottle use

However, the most common reason for crooked teeth is simply just genetics. Similar to the colour of your eyes and the colour of your hair, twisted teeth can be a trait that is inherited from your parents.

Why Treat Twisted Teeth?

While not immediately health threatening, twisted teeth can have a significantly negative impact on the overall state of your oral health. The issue itself can create a number of problems:

It can inhibit proper chewing
Cleaning teeth may become a greater challenge, this can increase your risk of cavities, gum disease and tooth decay
It can place strain on the jaw, teeth and surrounding muscles. This may result in tooth breakage
Twisted teeth can impact one’s mental health, as their appearance may be effect your confidence
It can interfere with the proper growth of both jaw bones
It can contribute to air way obstructions
It can contribute to underdeveloped sinuses – contributing to allergies and sinus related problems

Our Dental Treatments for Twisted Teeth

While it may be immediately obvious to you if your teeth are crooked, your dentist can assist you in determining whether you require treatment. To begin with, the Care Dental Camberwell team will examine you for tell-tale signs, such as the crooked alignment of teeth, abnormal facial appearance, discomfort or difficulty when biting or chewing or a speech impairment.

If one of these signs is recognised, x-rays will most likely be taken of your face and teeth, determining what type of treatment may be required. We may also take impressions of your teeth, having you bite on a soft material.

Following a diagnosis, the best orthodontic treatment program will be discussed. For some people, a method as simple as a retainer can be used, fixing and stabilising twisted teeth. However, others may need further treatment to correct crooked teeth. In most cases, braces or invisalign will be the necessary course of treatment to correct this issue, however in some extreme circumstances, an operation may be necessary.