eeth crowding is one of the most common teeth alignment issues affecting children and adults alike. It refers to the orthodontic condition in which the teeth overlap onto one another. It typically occurs when there is insufficient space on the jaw to properly accommodate the teeth, resulting in over-crowding of the teeth and irregular growth. The causes of teeth crowding include genetically inherited teeth structure, the improper eruption of definitive teeth and tooth loss. For example, when a baby loses a tooth prematurely, the neighbouring teeth tend to move into the vacated space, and over time cause the other permanent teeth to erupt in crooked positions.
There are several dental procedures and methods that are now available to correct the crowded teeth problem. Let’s look at three popular methods:
Invisalign
Invisalign is a modern teeth straightening treatment option that can tackle a variety of orthodontic problems including teeth crowding. Made from a smooth, flexible and clear plastic material, the removable aligner is comfortably worn over the patient’s teeth as alternative to traditional braces. Unlike traditional braces that comprise of unsightly wires and braces, Invisalign aligners, being virtually undetectable in the patient’s mouth, provide a more discreet method to straighten one’s teeth.
The removable aligner also makes it easier to clean your teeth as well as the oral device – you won’t ever have to worry about toothbrush bristles getting stuck in the wires. Based on the 3D scan and 3D-enabled Invisalign profile of your teeth, the custom created aligners are able to gently guide your crowded teeth into the desired position, pre-mapped by an intuitive computer-aided process.1
Smilefast Braces
Another modern option for tackling teeth crowding is that of Smilefast. Utilising 3D imaging to identify precise bracket positioning, Smilefast offers a speedy computer-aided teeth straightening method involving the use of transfer trays and invisible brackets to determine the precise location of archwire placement.2 Due to the digitally precise system that reduces guesswork and manual errors, the Smilefast system delivers highly predictable outcomes and a fast treatment.2
Traditional Braces
Traditional braces still offer the most common type of orthodontic correction. The braces consist of brackets and arch wires placed across the teeth, both of which are secured by elastic ties. The arch wires attached to the brackets – made from either metal, ceramic, or composite material – apply constant pressure on the teeth, so as to reposition them based on the treatment plan.
The reasons for correcting your crowded teeth are not merely cosmetic. Having straighter teeth not only gives you a better bite, they also promote healthier teeth and gums. Left untreated, crowded teeth can cause a host of dental problems, including gum disease, difficulty in cleaning, tooth wear, bad breath and risk of tooth injuries.3 The overlapping teeth and tight spaces also make it difficult to sufficiently clean between your teeth, making them prone to tooth decay and increased risk of gum disease.1
In most cases of crowded teeth, the teeth do not settle back into their original place by itself and usually require dental help. Speak to a dentist that can advise you on the various options to find the one that suits your individual needs, timeframe, lifestyle and budget.
If you wish to find out more about how you can address your crowded teeth issue, please contact Sydney CBD Dental at (02) 9232 3900.
References
- "Smilefast™ | Digital Indirect Bonding System." Smilefast. http://www.smilefast.com.au/.
- "What Is Invisalign?" What Is Invisalign? | Invisible Braces | Invisalign. Accessed May 22, 2017. https://www.invisalign.com.au/what-is-invisalign.
- "8 Health Problems Caused by Crooked Teeth." Dentistry For Madison. http://www.dentistryformadison.com/blog/2015/03/30/8-health-problems-caused-by-156681.