Achieve the Straight Smile You Deserve
Crooked teeth are a common orthodontic problem that affects oral health, making it harder to clean your teeth and leading to other dental problems. They can also negatively impact your self-esteem, making you feel self-conscious about your smile.
Dr. Stephen Grussmark provides personalized orthodontic treatment for patients in Coral Gables, Brickell, Hialeah, FL, and more. Read on to learn why you’re in good hands with our skilled Miami orthodontist, and then call (305) 441-1200 for an appointment.
What Are Crooked Teeth?
Crooked teeth are teeth that aren’t aligned properly, resulting in an irregular or uneven appearance. They may be rotated, tilted, or overlapping, and can affect both the appearance and functionality of the teeth. This condition is also known as malocclusion, meaning the teeth don’t fit together properly when the jaws are closed. Crooked teeth can cause difficulty chewing, speaking, and maintaining good oral hygiene.
Orthodontic Treatments for Crooked Teeth
Orthodontic treatment for crooked teeth typically involves braces or aligners to move misaligned teeth back into their correct position. Commonly used orthodontic treatments for crooked teeth include:
- Braces: Traditional braces consist of metal brackets and wires attached to the teeth. The wires are tightened periodically, applying pressure that gradually moves the teeth into their proper positions.
- Clear Aligners: Clear aligners, such as Invisalign, are custom-made plastic trays that fit over your teeth. They apply gentle pressure to move your teeth into the correct position.
- Lingual Braces: Similar to traditional braces, the brackets and wires are placed on the inside of the teeth instead of the outside.
- Ceramic Braces: Ceramic braces are similar to traditional metal braces, but the brackets are made of clear or tooth-colored material, making them less noticeable.
- Self-Ligating Braces: Self-ligating braces are similar to traditional braces, but use a clip to hold the wire in place, eliminating the need for elastic bands. This makes them more comfortable and reduces the time needed for adjustments.
Orthodontic treatment can take several months to several years, depending on the case’s severity. After treatment, you’ll wear a retainer to keep the teeth in their new positions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can crooked teeth be genetic?
Yes, crooked teeth can be genetic. If a family member has crooked teeth, there’s a higher chance of their children having crooked teeth. In some cases, genetics may cause the jaw to be too small or too large, which can affect how the teeth grow and lead to crookedness.
What are the risks of leaving crooked teeth untreated?
Leaving crooked teeth untreated can lead to various oral health problems, such as difficulty cleaning teeth properly, increased risk of tooth decay, gum disease, bad breath, and teeth grinding. Crooked teeth can also cause speech problems, jaw pain, and bite issues, which can affect overall oral health and quality of life.
Can crooked teeth be fixed without braces?
Yes, crooked teeth can be fixed without braces in some cases. Clear aligners such as Invisalign can straighten crooked teeth without braces. However, the severity of the crookedness and the individual’s unique situation will determine whether clear aligners are a suitable option.
Does insurance cover the cost of orthodontic treatment for crooked teeth?
In most cases, dental insurance will partially cover the cost of orthodontic treatment for crooked teeth. However, the amount of coverage may vary depending on the insurance plan and individual policy. It’s best to check with your insurance provider to understand what’s covered and what’s not.
Don’t Settle for Crooked Teeth. Schedule a Consultation Today!
Crooked teeth can harm your oral health and your self-esteem. Several treatment options are available, including braces, Invisalign, and retainers. If you have crooked teeth, schedule a consultation with Dr. Grussmark by calling our Miami, FL, office at (305) 441-1200. You can also book an appointment online by filling out our convenient contact form.
