DENTAL CONCERN

Crooked Teeth

Also called: crooked teeth, wonky teeth, gap teeth, overbite, underbite, misaligned teeth, buck teeth, snaggle tooth, goofy teeth, gap between front teeth

Crooked teeth are teeth that grow or sit out of their ideal position, creating crowding, overlapping, gaps or an uneven smile. Misalignment is extremely common and can range from a minor cosmetic concern to a problem that affects the bite, cleaning or overall oral health.

TYPICALLY OCCURS

Genetics, crowding, jaw development and childhood habits.

TREATED BY

Orthodontics, aligners, veneers and restorative dentistry.

ALSO LINKED TO

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Why it happens?

Crooked teeth often develop because there is a mismatch between the size of the teeth and the amount of space available within the jaw. If the jaw is relatively small or teeth are larger, there may not be enough room for each tooth to emerge in its ideal position. Teeth can consequently rotate, overlap or become crowded. Genetics play an important role, which means patterns of dental crowding, jaw shape and bite alignment can sometimes run in families.

Childhood development can also influence tooth alignment. Prolonged thumb sucking, dummy use, tongue habits and early loss of baby teeth can affect how permanent teeth emerge and how the jaws develop. Conversely, a baby tooth that remains in place longer than expected can sometimes interfere with the eruption of the permanent tooth beneath it. Missing or extra teeth may also alter the available space and cause neighbouring teeth to shift.

Crooked teeth can also develop or become more noticeable later in life. Teeth naturally have the potential to move over time, while gum disease and loss of supporting bone can allow teeth to change position. Missing teeth may create spaces into which neighbouring teeth gradually move or tilt. Previous orthodontic treatment does not necessarily prevent future movement either, particularly when retainers are not worn as advised. As a result, tooth alignment can continue to change throughout adulthood.

How far along is it?

Early

One or more teeth may be slightly rotated, uneven or out of position, with little or no effect on the bite or everyday oral hygiene.

Moderate

Overlapping, rotation or spacing becomes more noticeable. Cleaning between teeth may become difficult, and the way the upper and lower teeth meet may be affected.

Advanced

Crowding or tooth displacement is more pronounced and may be accompanied by substantial bite problems, difficulty maintaining oral hygiene or uneven tooth wear.

What addresses it?

Treatments that address this

Dental braces→Clear aligners→Dental crowns→Smile makeover→

Crooked teeth do not always require treatment. Minor misalignment may primarily be an aesthetic concern, and whether to address it is a personal decision. A dental or orthodontic assessment can be useful when the position of the teeth begins to affect confidence, comfort or the way the teeth meet.

It is particularly worth seeking advice when crowding makes brushing and interdental cleaning difficult, food regularly becomes trapped, teeth are wearing unevenly or the bite causes discomfort. Significant changes in the position of adult teeth should also be assessed, especially when accompanied by loose teeth, bleeding gums or other signs of gum disease.

Quick Questions:

What causes crooked teeth?

Crooked teeth can result from genetics, insufficient jaw space, tooth size, jaw development, childhood oral habits, early or delayed loss of baby teeth and missing or extra teeth. Several factors may contribute at the same time.

Can teeth become crooked as you get older?

Yes. Teeth can gradually shift throughout adulthood. Age-related changes, missing teeth, gum disease and not wearing retainers following orthodontic treatment can all contribute to changes in alignment.

Are crooked teeth bad for your oral health?

Not necessarily. Mildly crooked teeth can remain completely healthy. However, significant crowding can make some areas harder to clean, potentially increasing the risk of plaque accumulation, tooth decay and gum problems.

Do crooked teeth always need braces?

No. The appropriate approach depends on the type and severity of the misalignment, the bite and the desired outcome. Options may include fixed orthodontic braces or clear aligners, while selected cosmetic concerns may sometimes be addressed with restorative treatments.