Crowded mouths are more susceptible to dental problems due to difficulty maintaining proper oral hygiene. When teeth are too close together, brushing and flossing effectively is challenging, allowing food particles and bacteria to thrive. This can lead to an increased risk of tooth decay, gum disease, and even halitosis or bad breath.

There are various reasons why someone may have crowded or crooked teeth. It could be attributed to teeth that are naturally too large for a smaller mouth, an excess number of teeth, or, most commonly, jaws that have not developed to their full width. In the latter case, normal-sized teeth are pushed into crowded positions.

Traditional orthodontic approaches often involve extracting teeth to create space for crowded teeth to align. However, this method fails to address the underlying issue: underdeveloped or narrow jaws. Plus, extracting healthy adult teeth can be unpleasant and cause additional long term problems.

At Dental Off Chapel, we take a holistic approach to treating crowded teeth. We consider your breathing, posture, nutrition, and general well-being alongside your dental needs. By addressing the underlying causes of crowding, we can often facilitate spontaneous improvements in tooth alignment. If additional intervention is required, it becomes more manageable once the underlying cause has been managed.

In children, poor night-time breathing is frequently linked to airway restrictions, such as swollen tonsils or blocked nasal passages, leading to mouth breathing during sleep. Mouth breathing limits the natural stimulation of jaw growth, exacerbating the issue of narrow jaws and crowded teeth.

This cycle of narrow jaws and crowded teeth can result in tiredness, poor concentration (with potential links to conditions like ADHD), jaw joint problems, and long-term health complications like diabetes and heart disease.

Some common signs of poor night-time breathing in children and adults include:

• Dark circles under the eyes
• Restless and disturbed sleep
• Night sweating
• Poor concentration and irritability during the day

To ensure comprehensive care, we collaborate closely with Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT) specialists when necessary. They help us identify and manage underlying airway issues contributing to crowded teeth, ensuring a well-rounded approach to your treatment.

We offer two primary orthodontic treatment options to address crowded or crooked teeth:

1. Invisalign Clear Aligners: For those seeking a discreet and convenient solution, Invisalign clear aligners offer a virtually invisible way to straighten teeth. These aligners are custom-made to gradually shift your teeth into their optimal positions while allowing you to maintain your everyday activities.
2. Metal Braces: Traditional metal braces are highly effective in correcting severe crowding. These braces consist of brackets bonded to each tooth and an archwire that guides the teeth into their desired positions. Regular adjustments ensure steady progress towards a beautiful, well-aligned smile.

At Dental Off Chapel, we are committed to helping you achieve a healthier smile, improved breathing, and overall well-being. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards a lifetime of confident and healthy smiles.