Straighten Up Your Smile
Do you feel embarrassed by your smile because of crooked teeth? Crooked teeth are a common dental concern that affects many patients to some degree. While some patients have a single crooked tooth that makes them feel too embarrassed to smile, others have orthodontic concerns that affect the function and health of their bite.
It is never too late to straighten your teeth. Receiving orthodontic care at any age can help improve oral health and boost self-confidence.
Claremont Dental Institute offers cosmetic solutions for straightening crooked teeth. Our patients undergo a thorough oral health exam and bite analysis to evaluate the impact their crooked teeth have on their bite. Our dentists provide treatment plans based on the underlying cause and functional issues related to a patient’s crooked teeth to provide long-term results.
Crooked Teeth and Your Oral Health
Patients who live with crooked teeth often face higher rates of secondary dental concerns. Crooked teeth can be difficult to clean thoroughly, allowing debris and bacteria to build. For this reason, tooth decay and gum disease rates tend to be higher in patients with crooked teeth.
Crooked teeth can also affect the alignment and function of the jaw joint. Crooked teeth can cause damage to the temporomandibular joint creating painful symptoms often referred to as TMJ. TMJ is a chronic pain disorder resulting from a malfunction or damage to the jaw joint. Straightening crooked teeth may aid in alleviating these symptoms, allowing patients to live comfortably.
Crooked Teeth Pain
A crooked tooth can hurt for many reasons, often because it pushes against nearby teeth or changes the way your bite fits. When teeth are out of line, they can press on each other, which causes discomfort. This extra pressure can also strain nearby teeth, gums, and jaw muscles, leading to soreness and even headaches. A crooked tooth can also be harder to keep clean, so plaque can build up more easily, raising the risk of cavities or gum problems that can also cause pain.
If a tooth is out of line, it may cause an uneven bite, where the top and bottom teeth don’t meet the way they should. This imbalance makes certain teeth take on more force when you chew or bite down, which can lead to tooth sensitivity, gum soreness, or tiny cracks in the teeth. An uneven bite can also strain the jaw joints, causing pain or clicking sounds when you open and close your mouth.
To ease pain from a crooked tooth, it’s best to visit a dentist or orthodontist. They can check how your teeth are lined up and suggest ways to make you more comfortable. Sometimes, a night guard can reduce pressure, especially if you grind your teeth while sleeping. For a long-term fix, treatments like braces or clear aligners can help shift the tooth into the right spot. Fixing the alignment can reduce pain and make it easier to keep your teeth and gums healthy.
Patient Review
Invisalign: The Clear Way to Straighter Teeth
Dr. Steve Fountain is a Claremont, CA, area Invisalign provider. Invisalign is a system of clear aligners that are specially designed to address your orthodontic concerns. Patients wear a series of aligners that gradually shift teeth into alignment. Aligners are nearly invisible, comfortable to wear, and ultra discreet.
Invisalign can improve the look of your smile and your oral health. It’s a suitable treatment option for teen and adult patients with mild to moderate misalignment. Invisalign helps patients straighten their teeth without the embarrassment or discomfort of traditional braces.
To learn more about how Invisalign can help you achieve the smile, you have always wanted at any age, see Invisible Braces Treatment.
Alternatives To Orthodontics
Many patients have cosmetic alternatives to braces to improve their smile alignment. Cosmetic solutions for crooked teeth can boost self-confidence and help patients achieve their ideal smile. However, they are best for a crooked tooth that does not affect the function or comfort of your bite. Our dentist will evaluate your smile and the full impact of your crooked teeth on other aspects of your oral health. Then, our dentist will discuss your treatment options with you and help you choose the best option for your unique needs while achieving your goals.
Porcelain Veneer
Porcelain veneers are a great solution for those who have crooked teeth and want to improve their smile. Veneers are thin, custom-made shells of tooth-colored material that we bond to the front of the teeth to cover up any imperfections. Our dentists can use them to address a variety of issues such as chips, cracks, stains, and even gaps in between teeth.
For those with crooked teeth, porcelain veneers can straighten them out without having to undergo orthodontic treatment. Veneers offer an effective and aesthetically pleasing option for addressing crooked teeth. To learn more about porcelain veneers, see Porcelain Veneers.
Dental Crown
Dental crowns are another great way to address crooked teeth. A dental crown is a cap that fits over the entire visible portion of the tooth, covering it completely. This helps to protect the tooth from further damage and also improves the overall look. Our dentists can use crowns to correct misalignment, close gaps between teeth, or fix fractures or chips in a tooth. To learn more about dental crowns, see Dental Crowns.
Crooked Teeth FAQs
Crooked teeth are more than just a cosmetic dental problem. They can also have serious impacts on your oral health. Learn more below.
Can crooked teeth affect my bite?
Yes, crooked or crowded teeth often lead to an improper bite, known as malocclusion. When your upper and lower teeth don’t align properly, it can strain your jaw muscles and joints. This misalignment can cause difficulty chewing, tooth grinding, and even TMJ-related pain. Straightening your teeth can restore proper function and balance to your bite.
At what age should crooked teeth be corrected?
Crooked teeth can be corrected at almost any age. Orthodontic treatment often begins in childhood or adolescence, but many adults also choose to straighten their teeth later in life. Early evaluation, around age 7, allows dentists to spot potential alignment problems before they worsen. However, it’s never too late to achieve a straighter smile with modern orthodontic solutions.
How do crooked teeth affect oral hygiene?
Crooked teeth can make brushing and flossing more difficult because bacteria and food particles easily get trapped between tight or overlapping spaces. This can lead to plaque buildup, gum inflammation, and cavities. Even if you maintain a regular oral care routine, it’s harder to clean misaligned teeth thoroughly. Straightening your teeth makes oral hygiene easier and helps prevent long-term dental issues.
Do crooked teeth get worse over time?
Yes, crooked teeth can worsen if left untreated. As your bite pressure shifts and teeth continue to move, crowding and misalignment may increase. This can lead to uneven wear, gum recession, and jaw discomfort. Early treatment helps prevent complications and makes the alignment process easier and faster.
How long does it take to fix crooked teeth?
The length of treatment depends on the severity of your misalignment and the method used. Mild cases corrected with clear aligners may take as little as six months, while more complex orthodontic treatments can take one to two years. Your dentist or orthodontist will create a customized treatment plan with an estimated timeline. Regular checkups ensure that your progress stays on track.
Is it necessary to fix crooked teeth if they don’t bother me?
Even if your crooked teeth don’t cause cosmetic concern, treatment may still be beneficial for your oral health. Misalignment can lead to uneven wear, gum issues, or bite problems over time. Straightening your teeth helps maintain a balanced bite and prevents long-term complications. It’s always a good idea to discuss your specific case with your dentist before deciding.
You are never too old for a straighter smile! Contact the cosmetic dental team at Claremont Dental Institute at (909) 277-6919 or request your consultation online to begin your journey. We welcome new patients from the greater Claremont area, Upland California, Rancho Cucamonga, San Dimas, Pomona, and La Verne.