Crowding and Spacing of Teeth
Crowding of the Teeth
Crowding is the lack of space for all the teeth to fit normally within the jaws. Crowding occurs when there is disharmony in the tooth to jaw size relationship or when the teeth are larger than the available space. Crowding can be caused by improper eruption of teeth and early or late loss of primary teeth.
Left uncorrected crowding can:
- prevent proper cleaning of all the surfaces of your teeth
- cause dental decay
- increase the chances of gum disease
- result in excessive enamel wear
- make your smile less attractive
|
|
How can crowding be orthodontically corrected?
Space can be created by expansion of the arches or by extraction of teeth. Once space is created, braces will move the teeth into proper position. Correction of crowding can help prevent dental decay and periodontal disease by improving the ability to remove plaque from the teeth.
Spacing of the Teeth
Spacing is an excess of space for teeth which results in gaps between the teeth. This problem generally occurs when the teeth are smaller than the available space. Spacing can also be caused by protrusive teeth, missing teeth, impacted teeth or abnormal tissue attachments to the gums.
Left untreated spacing can:
- result in gum problems due to the lack of protection by the teeth
- prevent proper functioning of the teeth
- make your smile less attractive
|
|
How can spacing of the teeth be orthodontically corrected?
The spaces can be closed by moving the teeth together and properly aligning them within the arch.