Besides cosmetic concerns, crooked teeth can also lead to oral health conditions that affect the longevity of a healthy smile. Crooked teeth make it difficult to brush and floss, allowing plaque to build up between teeth and causing tooth decay and gum disease. Misaligned teeth may also contribute to bite disorders and TMJ-related problems.
Annapolis dentist Dr. Vernon Sheen offers treatment options for crooked teeth with and without the use of orthodontics. We also offer discreet orthodontic treatment with invisible braces with Invisalign in our Annapolis, MD dental office.
Adults sometimes want to avoid braces, as they can be difficult or even embarrassing to wear. There are a number of ways to fix crooked teeth without braces.
Porcelain Veneers
Porcelain veneers are thin, translucent shells that cover the front and sides of the teeth. They require the tooth surface to be prepared and are considered a permanent restoration. The durable porcelain material gives a uniform appearance to the teeth and provides a natural-looking, stain-resistant luster.
Dental Crowns
Dental Crowns may be used as a corrective method for crooked teeth, to cover the entire tooth like a cap. Porcelain Dental Crowns are available to provide a natural look. These can also be used to fill in gaps between teeth.
In most cases, our dentist in Annapolis, MD is able to provide same-day treatment for Dental Crowns and dental veneers, thanks to advanced CEREC technology. Instead of using messy impressions, Dr. Sheen will use multi-dimensional images of your mouth, gums, and teeth to design your dental crown.
Once designed, we will send that to our in-office milling system. Using the CEREC milling machine, your ceramic restoration will be fabricated right in our Annapolis dentist office while you wait. Imagine being able to walk out of the dentist office with a brand-new smile in just one visit.
Cosmetic Bonding
Cosmetic bonding uses composite resins to cover the surface of the stained/broken/or crooked tooth. Applied directly to the tooth and molded by hand, this procedure is quick and cost-effective for treating crooked teeth. Cosmetic bonding is not permanent and may need to be touched up in the future. This is often the ideal solution for minor imperfections, younger patients, or anyone not ready for the commitment of dental veneers.
Invisalign
Invisalign is a great option to fix crooked teeth for adults who do not wish to have braces. Using a series of ultra-clear, removable aligners, Invisalign will gently reposition your teeth without causing damage to tooth enamel or gum tissue. For effective treatment, the aligners should be worn for about 22 hours a day.
You should only remove them when eating, brushing, or flossing. Invisalign aligners are changed out every 1-2 weeks. The average treatment lasts about 6-12 months. Most patients find that Invisalign is much more comfortable than metal braces. The benefits of invisible braces vs. metal braces include:
- Improved Oral Hygiene
- Discreet Treatment
- More Dietary Choices without restrictions
- Increased Comfort
- Teeth-Grinding Protection
- No staining of the teeth after treatment
Crooked Teeth FAQs
Learn more about crooked teeth in Annapolis, MD, with answers to these common patient questions:
Do genetics cause crooked teeth?
Yes, genetics can play a big role in causing crooked teeth. You might inherit the size and shape of your jaw or teeth from your parents. For example, if your jaw is too small, your teeth may crowd and overlap. You could also inherit conditions like an overbite or underbite. While genetics can influence crooked teeth, other factors like thumb-sucking, injury, or losing baby teeth too early can also contribute.
Will straightening my teeth help improve my bite?
Yes, straightening your teeth can help improve your bite. Misaligned teeth may not come together properly when you bite, which is called a bad bite or malocclusion. This can cause discomfort, wear down your teeth unevenly, or even lead to jaw pain.
By straightening your teeth, your bite can become more balanced. A balanced bite makes it easier to chew and reduces the risk of other dental problems like TMJ.
Do crooked teeth get worse over time?
Yes, crooked teeth can worsen if they are not treated. Teeth naturally shift as you age, and this movement can cause crooked teeth to become more misaligned. Other factors, like losing a tooth or gum disease, can also lead to further crowding or spacing issues.
Early treatment can prevent crooked teeth from getting worse, If you notice changes in your teeth or feel discomfort, schedule a dental visit.
Can crooked teeth affect my oral health?
Yes, crooked teeth can affect your oral health. When your teeth are misaligned, it can be harder to clean them properly, especially in hard-to-reach areas. This can lead to a build-up of plaque and bacteria, increasing your risk of cavities and gum disease.
Crooked teeth can also put extra pressure on your jaw, which might cause jaw pain, headaches, or even problems with your bite. Straightening your teeth can make it easier to keep your mouth clean and help prevent these health issues.
Can crooked teeth cause problems with speaking or eating?
When your teeth are not aligned properly, it can be harder to pronounce certain words clearly. Misaligned teeth can also make chewing difficult because they might not come together properly, which can cause pain or discomfort when eating. Food can also get stuck between them, making it harder to clean your teeth.
What happens if I leave my crooked teeth untreated?
If you leave your crooked teeth untreated, they can cause several problems. First, misaligned teeth can make it harder to clean your teeth properly, leading to a higher risk of cavities and gum disease. Crooked teeth can also cause discomfort or pain, especially when chewing. Over time, they may put extra pressure on your jaw and lead to problems like headaches or jaw pain.
Sometimes, crooked teeth can affect your speech or how your teeth fit together when you bite. Getting treatment, like braces or Invisalign, can help fix these issues and improve your overall dental health.
Can you fix crooked teeth without braces or aligners?
Sometimes, we can fix slightly crooked teeth without braces or aligners. One option is dental veneers, thin shells placed over the front of your teeth to make them look straighter. Another option is tooth reshaping, where a dentist gently removes or adjusts small amounts of tooth enamel to improve alignment.
However, these methods don’t move your teeth; they only change how they look. You may need aligners or braces for more severe cases to fix the problem completely.
How much does it cost to treat crooked teeth?
The cost of treating crooked teeth depends on the type of treatment you need and how much your teeth need to be straightened.
Traditional metal braces and Invisalign have similar costs. However, their cost will depend on how many aligners you need and how long your treatment lasts. If you only have minor crooked teeth, you can get veneers, crowns, or bonding. Tooth bonding is the least expensive because it takes one in-office treatment.
Veneers cost more than bonding because it offers a more permanent solution with stronger materials. Crowns cost more than veneers and bonding because they cover more of the tooth and last longer than other options.
Schedule A Dental Exam and Consultation
Schedule a consultation with Dr. Sheen of Annapolis to determine the best and most cost-effective way to fix your crooked teeth and get that perfect smile. Our office can help you with this problem and other dental concerns you may have.