Oral diseases are relatively common. The most common oral conditions are cavities, gingivitis, and periodontitis. These diseases cause pain, tooth loss, and even bad breath. However, not all oral problems are centered around these diseases. Sometimes, people can find oral problems in the aesthetic of one’s teeth. For example, one aesthetic problem that people face is crooked teeth.
Crooked Teeth
Crooked teeth are a common aesthetic problem. It is defined as when the position of the teeth is out of alignment. There are many reasons why someone might have crooked teeth.
The most common reason is genetics. If your parents or grandparents had crooked teeth, then there is a good chance that you will too. It’s also fairly common to see crooked teeth in certain races worldwide. For example, according to the National Health Service, many people in the United Kingdom have crooked teeth.
However, crooked teeth can happen because of poor oral hygiene. If you do not brush or floss your teeth regularly, this will lead to plaque buildup. Plaque is a sticky film that is full of bacteria. The bacteria will then eat away at the enamel of your teeth, which will eventually lead to tooth decay. Tooth decay will slowly break down your teeth and make them crooked.
Lastly, crooked teeth can happen from injuries. For example, if you get hit in the mouth or fall and hit your mouth, this can damage your teeth. Damaged teeth are more likely to be crooked. But are crooked teeth that bad?
Are Crooked Teeth Bad?
Crooked teeth are not necessarily bad for your oral health. They still function the same way regular teeth do, and there haven’t been any significant differences between the two.
However, they can be bad for your self-esteem. For example, if you have crooked teeth, you might be embarrassed to smile. You might not want to take pictures or talk to people because you are afraid that they will judge you.
This can lead to social anxiety and even depression.
But there is good news! There are many ways to fix crooked teeth. The most common way is through braces.
Braces
Braces are a type of dental appliance that helps to straighten teeth. They work by using gentle pressure to move the teeth into the correct position. There are many different braces, but the most common are metal braces.
Metal braces are the traditional type of braces. They are made out of metal wires and brackets. The wires are attached to the brackets, putting pressure on the teeth to move them. However, metal braces can be a source of low self-esteem. If you don’t want to deal with the hassle of metal braces, then you can try Invisalign.
Invisalign is a type of clear aligner that is barely visible. It is made out of clear plastic, and it fits over the teeth. Invisalign slowly moves the teeth into the correct position over time. It is an excellent alternative to metal braces, almost invisible.
If you want to consider this option, you should visit your local dental office. The right dental professional can give you the necessary information to make an informed decision. They can also give you a quote for the treatment. Make sure to think about this well because braces might take some time before you can remove them.
Dental Veneers
If you don’t want to wear braces, you can try dental veneers. Veneers are thin pieces of porcelain that are attached to the front of the teeth. They are used to cover up imperfections, making your teeth look straighter.
The downside of veneers is that they are not reversible. Once they are attached, they are permanent. They also require some removal of the tooth enamel. This means that your teeth will be more sensitive to hot and cold temperatures.
At Home Straightening Kits
At-home straightening kits are another popular option for fixing crooked teeth. These kits are available over the counter, and they are much cheaper than braces. They usually come with a mold that you put in your mouth to create an imprint on your teeth.
You then send the mold off to the company, and they will send you back a custom-made retainer. The retainer is made out of clear plastic, and it fits over your teeth. The retainer will slowly move your teeth into the correct position over time.
The only downside to this option is that it might take longer to see results. It can also be uncomfortable because you are constantly wearing a retainer.
Overall, there are many ways to fix crooked teeth. The most common way is through braces, but you can also try dental veneers or at-home straightening kits. Invisalign is an excellent alternative to metal braces, and it is almost invisible. These are great options, and the right one for you depends on your personal preference.
