Straighten Your Crowded Teeth with Smilepath Australia’s Clear Aligners

Symptoms of Teeth Crowding

• Overlapping or twisted teeth
• Bite problems
• Jaw pain or discomfort
• Speech issues
• Increased wear of certain teeth

Types of Teeth Crowding

Teeth crowding has the following types based on their position and placements.

• Anterior: The front teeth overlap or tilt forward.
• Posterior: The back teeth are misaligned or crowded, making chewing difficult.

Jaw Size

If the jaw is small, there is less space available to accommodate the teeth which results in the teeth twisting, overlapping, or pushing against one another in an attempt to fit inside the mouth.

Genetics

The makeup of an individual is largely predetermined by one’s DNA. Like all other characteristics, the size, shape, and structure, or even the alignment of an individual’s jaw as well as their teeth is in their genetics. If you have a family history when it comes to teeth crowding, it is most likely you will have it too.

Tooth Loss

Children losing their baby teeth is one of those peculiar yet natural developments in life. However, if the teeth fall out much earlier than intended, it can lead to drastic changes in dental structure. It creates a void before it is required and surrounding teeth tend to move towards that space which causes misalignment and crowding problems.

Late Orthodontic Intervention

If neglected for long periods, spacing issues with teeth become increasingly complex to deal with. Treatments done at a later stage can be much more difficult to manage as teeth will have already progressed to an undesired position.

Increased Risk of Cavities and Gums

Due to the cramped nature of twisted teeth, little hidden nooks and corners are created in your mouth. These areas are difficult to clean and end up trapping food particles, leading to bacteria buildup, cavities, and even gum disease over time.

Poor Functionality of Mouth

Teeth overlapping and crowding also interfere with the normal functionality of the mouth by disrupting your biting and chewing mechanism. Moreover, teeth crowding makes it difficult to speak, leading to speech abnormalities like lisping.

Pain and Discomfort

Misaligned teeth can cause uneven force distribution in the jaw, leading to concentrated pressure on certain points. This can lead to chronic jaw pain, TMJ diseases, and even headaches.

Aesthetic Concerns

Teeth crowding can impact your aesthetics and overall appearance. Many individuals feel self-conscious about crowded teeth causing them to avoid smiling in public spaces. In some severe cases, it can also lead to social isolation and even depression.

Traditional Braces

Let’s start with the basics. Braces have been in use to treat crowded teeth for centuries. When treating with braces, the orthodontist places metal brackets and wires on your teeth to gradually place them into their correct positions. They are highly effective for moderate to severe crowding but they are very uncomfortable, require regular adjustments, and are more noticeable than the other options.

Clear Aligners

Clear aligners are a suitable alternative to metal braces. These transparent removable trays gently shift your teeth to their ideal positions without the hassle of metal wires and brackets. They are virtually invisible which makes them a popular choice for many people who want a discreet treatment. They require much less time to correct teeth crowding and are much more comfortable, and easy to wear. Their removability allows you to enjoy your food and maintain oral hygiene.

Invasive Methods

In extreme cases where the jaw is too small and crowding is too severe, dental surgery is recommended. This could involve removing one or more teeth, reshaping the jaw, or surgically moving teeth to proper alignment. Although it's suitable for severe cases, it is invasive, costly, and requires a lot of time for recovery.