Crooked teeth which are known medically as malocclusion, are not only cosmetic issues but can have serious impacts on one's oral health, self-confidence, and overall life. From the toughness of chewing to affecting speech, the consequences caused by the misalignment of your teeth can be very complicated. Nevertheless, nowadays, dentistry technology has progressed and dentists can solve this problem in different ways which leads to the enhancement of the patient's looks as well as healthcare.
The following are the effects of crooked teeth:
Oral Health Complications:
Crooked or misaligned teeth may create crevices and overlaps that sometimes fail to be effectively cleaned. It raises plaque formation possibility, gradual tooth damage, and gum disease. Even with perfect home oral hygiene practices, there are still some hard-to-reach places that might cause dental problems.
Chewing and Digestion Problems:
The food intake may not be satisfactory if the teeth are poorly aligned resulting in digestive problems. When teeth do not fit together properly, jaws and temporomandibular joints (TMJ) can strain, which may lead to discomfort, or pain while chewing.
Speech Impediments:
The alignment of the teeth is critically important for speech production. The teeth that are misaligned and not in their correct position can lead to lisps, difficulty in pronunciation, or speech impediments. This may lead to communication difficulties and a lack of self-assurance in private and public settings.
Increased Risk of Dental Injuries:
Teeth may be oversized, coming out from under the gums, or chipped with sharp points which may increase the chances of the teeth being damaged (fractured) in an unexpected accident or impact. Such injuries could be anything from a minor laceration to some more severe trauma in need of emergency dental care.
TMJ Disorders:
Patients may develop TMJ disorders due to imbalances in the jaw resulting from misalignment of the teeth. Symptoms can range from jaw pain to clicking or popping sounds, headaches, and difficulty in having the mouth in a fully open or closed position.
Psychological Impact:
In addition to the psychological effects, the fact is, crooked teeth can trigger low self-esteem and an individual may be viewed as not well-groomed. People may be embarrassed to smile or even avoid talking to others because of the fear that other people will make fun of their looks.
The following are the Solutions:
Orthodontic Treatments:
Traditional braces and the ones based on modern technology such as clear aligners are the ones that can gradually bring teeth back to the right position. Orthodontic treatment not only improves the teeth' appearance but also corrects underlying functional problems, thus ensuring proper oral health.
Dental Bonding or Veneers:
Patients with minor teeth misalignment and cosmetic complications can use dental bonding and veneers as possible options. These include using paint-like materials to cover imperfections on the surface of the teeth and improve their appearance.
Retainers:
The retainers that come after orthodontic therapy help to preserve the alignment of teeth that have already been corrected. Retainers are used to maintain the teeth’s final position and should be worn as prescribed to prevent post-treatment relapse.
Regular Dental Checkups:
No matter what type of treatment you choose, regular dental checkups are still important to keep track of the progress, to respond to any issues immediately, and to maintain the best oral health.
Conclusion:
The impact of misaligned teeth goes beyond appearance, impacting oral health, functionality, and even mental well-being. The good news is that dentistry provides various solutions, including orthodontic procedures and surgical interventions, to address this issue.
Seeking prompt advice from a professional and receiving appropriate treatment can improve smile aesthetics, enhance oral health, and contribute to a better quality of life. Remember, treating crooked teeth is fundamental to achieving a beautiful smile and correcting jaw misalignment.
If you're worried about Crooked Teeth, reach out to Signature Dental South Perth for guidance. We employ cutting-edge technology and methods to guarantee a stunning smile and lasting outcomes. Contact us today at (08) 9474 4750 to schedule a consultation.
