Teeth Crowding Specialist

Schoolhouse Orthodontics, LTD

Orthodontics located in Nazareth, PA

Teeth crowding is a common problem that affects millions of Americans, but without intervention and treatment, it increases the risk of potentially serious issues, including tooth decay, gum disease, and bone loss. At Schoolhouse Orthodontics, LTD, Tasha Bolden, DMD, MSD, uses orthodontic appliances, including braces and Invisalign® clear aligners to safely and effectively treat teeth crowding. To make an appointment at the practice in Nazareth, Pennsylvania, call the office or click the online booking tool today.

610-776-9793

Teeth Crowding Q & A

braces

What is teeth crowding?

Teeth crowding is an alignment issue that occurs when your jaw is unable to adequately support a full row of permanent teeth. Left untreated, it can result in spacing issues, overlapping, or impaction, making your teeth increasingly difficult to clean.

If you’re unable to access each of your teeth when brushing and flossing, plaque and tartar begin building up, increasing the risk of cavities, gum disease, and gum recession.

What causes teeth crowding?

Teeth crowding is often inherited, meaning it tends to run in families. For example, if your parents or grandparents had crowded teeth, you’re more likely to as well.

Other factors that contribute to teeth crowding include:

Cleft lip and palate
Prolonged use of bottle-feeding
Thumb or finger sucking in early childhood
Tumors of the mouth or jaw
Unusually shaped teeth
Mouth breathing

ou’re also more likely to experience teeth crowding if you experience trauma or an injury that affects the growth or shape of your jaw.

How is teeth crowding diagnosed?

To diagnose teeth crowding, Dr. Bolden reviews your dental health history and conducts a comprehensive oral exam. Afterward, she takes digital X-rays to assess the alignment of your teeth and jaw and to get a closer look at your tooth roots and alveolar bone. Most instances of crowding are visible to the naked eye.

If Dr. Bolden determines you’re at risk, she develops a custom orthodontic treatment plan that allows for more space between each of your teeth.

How is teeth crowding treated?

At Schoolhouse Orthodontics, LTD, Dr. Bolden treats teeth crowding with custom oral appliances. Depending on your age, dental health history, and needs, she might recommend:

Braces

Braces use wires, brackets, and rubber bands to place gradual pressure on your teeth and jaw. Over time, that pressure moves them into the optimal position, allowing for proper spacing and alignment.

Invisalign® clear aligners

If you have mild crowding and don’t want to wear braces, Dr. Bolden might recommend Invisalign®. Invisalign uses a series of clear, plastic aligners that snap over your teeth. You wear them 20-22 hours a day, only removing them to brush and floss or eat.

Oral surgery

Sometimes braces and Invisalign aren’t enough to address crowding. If your symptoms are severe, Dr. Bolden might recommend oral surgery. Some procedures remove teeth while others reshape your jaw.

To receive treatment for teeth crowding, make an appointment at Schoolhouse Orthodontics, LTD, by calling the office or clicking the online booking tool today.