Crooked or crowded teeth are very common, in both children and adults. As well as aesthetics, poor alignment can affect how well teeth are cleaned, the bite and even the jaw joint. Here's why it happens and what solutions are available today.
Why do teeth become crooked?
Genetics
Jaw size and tooth size are inherited. If teeth are large for the available space, they overlap (crowding); if they're small, gaps are left between them.
Childhood habits
Thumb sucking, using a dummy or bottle beyond age 3, mouth breathing or incorrect tongue position when swallowing can deform the palate and push teeth out of line.
Early loss of baby teeth
Baby teeth hold the space for permanent teeth. If they're lost too early (through decay or knocks), neighbouring teeth drift and the permanent tooth may come through in the wrong position.
Over the years
Teeth keep moving throughout life. Losing a molar, gum problems or not wearing retainers after orthodontics can make them crooked again in adulthood.
Why is it worth correcting them?
- Hygiene: aligned teeth are easier to clean, which lowers the risk of decay and gum disease.
- Bite: good occlusion spreads chewing forces evenly and prevents uneven wear and fractures.
- Jaw joint: a balanced bite helps prevent temporomandibular joint (TMJ) problems.
- Self-esteem: smiling without hang-ups matters too.
Solutions at Somriures Dental
We offer tailored treatments for every age:
- Invisible orthodontics: clear, removable aligners, like the QuickSmile aligners we use at the clinic. Barely noticeable, and you take them out to eat.
- Aesthetic braces: sapphire or ceramic, less visible than metal ones.
- Metal braces: the classic option, very effective in complex cases.
- Interceptive orthodontics: to correct problems in children while they grow, guiding bone development and avoiding longer treatment later on.
When misalignment is very slight and the patient mainly wants an aesthetic improvement, veneers can sometimes help. We assess this at the study.
At what age can it be corrected?
We recommend a first orthodontic check-up at around age 6, when the first permanent teeth come in: catching the problem early allows simpler treatments. But there's no age limit: many adults have orthodontics, as long as their gums and bone are healthy.
How long does treatment take?
It depends on the case. On average, orthodontic treatment takes 12 to 24 months; with QuickSmile aligners the average is around 9–14 months. Afterwards, retainers must be worn so the teeth don't move back.
Frequently asked questions
Can crooked teeth be fixed without braces?
Yes, in many cases with invisible orthodontics. At the first visit we tell you whether your case is suitable.
Why have my teeth become crooked as an adult?
It's normal: teeth move over the years, especially if a tooth has been lost or retainers aren't worn after orthodontics.
Does orthodontics hurt?
It doesn't hurt, although it's normal to feel pressure for the first days of each adjustment or new aligner.
