When it comes to children, there are many things that parents worry about. One common concern is crowded or crooked teeth. While it’s normal for baby teeth to start coming in crooked, if the problem persists into adulthood, it can be a sign of something more serious. This article will explore the causes of crooked teeth in children and how to fix them.
What Causes Crowded or Crooked Teeth?
There are a few different reasons why your child’s teeth might be crowded or crooked:
Genetics
If you or your partner have crooked teeth, there’s a good chance that your child will inherit this trait. Not only that, but if your family has a history of crowding or malocclusion (misalignment of the teeth), your child is more likely to experience these problems as well.
Facial Structure
The shape of your child’s face can also play a role in crowding or crooked teeth. If their jaw is too small or their teeth are too large for their mouth, this can cause the teeth to become crooked or crowded.
Thumb Sucking
Thumb sucking is a common habit in young children, and while it’s generally harmless, it can cause problems with the alignment of your child’s teeth. If your child sucks their thumb excessively, it can put pressure on the teeth and
Lack of Space in the Mouth
This is often due to genetics as well, but it can also be the result of thumb sucking or other habits that cause the mouth to become misshapen. If there’s simply not enough room in your child’s mouth for all of their teeth, they may become crooked or crowded.
Poor Dental Hygiene
If your child doesn’t brush and floss regularly, it can build up plaque and tartar on their teeth. This can cause the teeth to become crooked or crowded over time.
Early or Late Loss of Baby Teeth
While it’s normal for baby teeth to fall out, if they’re lost too early or too late, it can cause problems with the alignment of your child’s permanent teeth. If a baby tooth is lost too early, the permanent tooth may become crooked. If a baby’s tooth is lost too late, it can crowd the other teeth and cause them to become crooked.
Accidents or Injuries
If your child has an accident or is injured, it can cause their teeth to become crooked or crowded. This is because the teeth may be pushed out of alignment by the injury.
How to Fix Crooked Teeth
The best way to fix crooked teeth is to see an orthodontist. They will be able to assess your child’s individual situation and recommend the best course of treatment. Here are a few of the most common treatments for crooked teeth:
Braces
The use of dental braces is the most common treatment for crooked teeth. Braces work by putting pressure on the teeth and gradually moving them into the correct position. This process can take several months to a few years, depending on the severity of the crowding or crookedness.
Invisalign
Invisalign is a newer treatment that uses clear, plastic aligners to straighten teeth. It works in a similar way to braces, but because the aligners are clear, they’re much less noticeable. Invisalign is often used for adults or teenagers who have mild crowding or crookedness.
Retainers
After your child’s teeth have been straightened, they will need to wear a retainer to keep them in place. Retainers are usually worn at night, but some people may also need to wear them during the day. Wearing a retainer is often a lifelong commitment, but having straighter teeth is worth it!
Preventing Crooked Teeth
It’s important to take action to prevent crooked teeth in your child, as they may not be able to fix the problem on their own. There are a few things you can do to help:
- Encourage them to brush and floss regularly. This will help keep their teeth healthy and reduce the risk of overcrowding.
- Limit their intake of sugary and acidic foods and drinks. These can damage teeth and lead to tooth decay.
- Make sure they see the dentist regularly. This will help ensure that any problems are caught early and treated appropriately.
- If they suck their thumb, encourage them to stop. This can help prevent overcrowding and misalignment of the teeth.
There you go! This should give you a better understanding of what can cause crowded or crooked teeth in children, as well as how to fix them. If you have any further questions, be sure to ask your orthodontist.
