What Does Crowding Teeth Mean?

When there is a lack of space between the teeth where they originally were, then there are signs of crowding. This tends to become a problem when the tooth-to-jaw size ratio doesn’t match up. It can also mean that the teeth are too big or are being pushed by other teeth in the mouth. When the crowding gets to be too much, teeth are pushed out of place and turned sideways. Sometimes, there is pain in the jaw due to the pressure of the teeth pushing on each other.

Why does the crowding of teeth need to be corrected?

When teeth start to crowd, it becomes tight in between the spaces of the teeth. If these spaces are hard to reach with the toothbrush, floss, or mouthwash, then that bacteria will keep building up until it gets inside the gums and to the roots of the teeth. This can lead to gum disease and even tooth decay (the root has died, and now the tooth is dying without a steady blood supply).

Cases where crowding needs to be corrected usually happen to the youth, since their bodies are still growing and their teeth are growing as well. This case can happen with adults when either our jaws naturally change shape or if wisdom teeth are growing in. This causes the teeth to be pushed in on each other as the mouth makes room for the wisdom teeth.

How can the teeth be corrected?

Crowding can be orthodontically corrected by expansion or extraction of teeth. In some cases, the teeth would be separated by the dentist in hopes to relieve pressure between the teeth. A dentist can also use braces to help even out the teeth over time as they move them into place at a steady rate. If there are just too many teeth, then the patient can possibly benefit from a tooth extraction. This is when the dentist would make the decision to extract a tooth or some teeth to help make room and straighten out the other teeth. Braces can serve as a temporary solution, since they can be removed once the teeth are fully aligned. Meanwhile, the extraction of teeth is a more permanent solution, since teeth cannot grow back if they are removed as adults.

What is Teeth Spacing

Teeth spacing is when the dentist notices that the teeth are spaced out further than needed. The extra space between the teeth then becomes problematic because it leaves a lack of protection by the teeth. This can soon cause gum problems because of the space. The spacing of the teeth can also hinder the proper functioning of the teeth. Yet, most of all, the spacing of teeth can make someone self-conscious and feel like their smile is less attractive.

If you or someone you know is having issues with teeth crowding or spacing, then it’s best to reach out to a dental specialist. There, they can give advice on what to do at home, versus what they would be doing during a checkup. During the exam, speak to your dentist about the options you have for your teeth.

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