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Crooked Teeth Problems: The Importance of Tooth Alignment

A teenager correcting their crooked teeth problems through orthodontic treatment.

Everyone wants to have a great smile! But a perfect row of teeth is more than just aesthetically pleasing – it’s also good for your health. If your teeth are out of healthy alignment, you could develop one or more common crooked teeth problems. These issues can leave your mouth weakened against bacteria or add pain or challenges to your daily life.

Tooth Decay

Brushing every surface of your teeth is difficult. That’s why flossing is so important! When your teeth are crooked, certain areas of your mouth can be even harder for your toothbrush to reach. In some cases, crooked teeth will make certain parts of your mouth impossible for a toothbrush or floss to reach.

Bacteria will quickly find their way into these impossible-to-clean spots. The more severe your misaligned teeth, the more surfaces that bacteria can find to hide in. Over time, these bacteria will harden and continue to cause tooth decay.

Gum Disease

Bacteria and decay won’t stop at your teeth! The increase in plaque in your mouth will extend to your gums and begin to cause gum disease. Some of the effects of gum disease are:

  • Swollen, tender gums
  • Receding gums that leave teeth more vulnerable
  • Bleeding gums when brushing or eating
  • High frequency of canker sores
  • Bad breath

This can be even worse with certain cases of crooked teeth. If your gums don’t fit perfectly around your teeth, they can allow for deep pockets that are nearly impossible to clean on a regular basis. These pockets will allow bacteria to thrive uncontrolled for weeks, months or even years. Another reason why it’s so important to schedule regular dentist visits!

Without treatment, severe periodontal disease can develop, which leads to more dangerous symptoms. Ultimately, you may even begin to lose your teeth!

Tooth Damage

When teeth are not properly aligned, your bite will cause more friction and wear than those of someone with healthy, straight teeth. This extra contact will not only lead to additional wear, but it will cause your teeth to wear in uneven ways that can leave them vulnerable to fractures and additional decay.

TMD / TMJ

Beyond your teeth and gums, your jaw can also experience crooked teeth problems. Your altered bite will overwork the muscles involved with chewing and speaking due to the unusual position of your teeth. This can lead to temporomandibular joint disorder, also known as TMJ.

TMJ or TMD will cause pains all around your jaw! The most common are jaw pains, but you may also develop chronic pain in your cheeks. Additionally, TMJ disorder symptoms include your jaw making popping sounds or even locking up.

Headaches

One unusual side-effect of misaligned teeth and their impact on your jaw is the developing of chronic headaches. The pain from overworked jaw muscles due to TMJ/TMD will spread through your entire head and cause these headaches or even severe migraines.

Those with jaw disorders are more likely to suffer from bruxism as well. This grinding of the teeth wears away at the enamel, leaves teeth vulnerable and is another key contributor to frequent headaches.

Orthodontic Treatment Can Solve Crooked Teeth Problems

Do you have crooked teeth problems? Whether you experience pain from misaligned teeth or simply want to improve the aesthetics of your smile, orthodontic treatment is likely an option for you!

Pointe Dental Group has two incredible orthodontists who can help you restore a flawless smile. We offer a range of solutions that can best fit your needs:

  • Traditional metal braces
  • Invisalign (Clear Braces)
  • Esthetic Ceramic Braces

The length of orthodontic treatment is unique for every patient, but the results will improve your smile and your quality of life! Problems from crooked teeth can lead to several oral and full-body health issues due to bacteria or tooth loss. Request a consultation to start your journey towards a healthier mouth.

Contact us to set up an appointment

Schedule an Appointment Today!

If you’re worried about crooked teeth, we’re here to help. If you have questions, or would like to speak with one of our dentists in Grosse Pointe Farms and Shelby Township about your dental options, contact us!

Schedule an appointment with us today! New patients can receive FREE comprehensive exam and consultation, plus a full panoramic x-ray with a paid cleaning procedure (a $200 value)!

 

Grosse Pointe Farms: (313) 881-2480

Shelby Township: (586) 803-8300

 

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