Crooked teeth are one of the primary concerns of dental and orthodontic patients because, not only can they tarnish the beauty of a smile, they can also lead to many minor and even major dental health issues. At Short Pump Dental, we provide general dentistry to patients in Henrico, VA, and we understand from expertise and experience what causes crooked teeth, how to prevent them, and what to do if you have them.
Causes of Crooked Teeth
There are many causes of crooked teeth, and most of them begin in early childhood, though they can also be linked to improper dental hygiene.
- - A childhood injury involving trauma to the face or jaw can cause misaligned teeth to develop.
- - Bad habits such as thumb sucking and mouth breathing also cause malocclusions or crookedness.
- - Genetics can be responsible for crooked teeth.
- - Poor oral hygiene and untreated dental problems also allow teeth to decay and become misaligned.
Health Issues Related to Crooked Teeth
Having crooked teeth can make it more difficult to care for the teeth properly. Misalignment makes it harder to reach certain parts of the mouth when brushing and flossing and can cause bacteria and plaque to build up unchecked. Crooked teeth can also cause a several related health issues including:
- - jaw pain
- - discomfort and soreness in the mouth
- - difficulty speaking
- - poor facial development
- - digestive issues
- - tooth damage
- - chronic headaches
Care Tips and Treatment
The best way to treat crooked teeth is to have them cleaned often by a professional and eventually corrected through orthodontic treatment. Not only will your smile be dazzlingly improved, but you will be freed from the oral health issues associated with crooked teeth. Short Pump Dental offers a variety of treatment plans to account for your specific dental needs.
Consult a Professional
If you have crooked teeth, or you want to start caring for your oral health to treat or prevent them, don’t hesitate to make an appointment with our team at Short Pump Dental. We provide comprehensive consultations, as well as general, cosmetic, and family dentistry to our patients. If you have any questions about crooked teeth or our dental practice, contact us today!