Crooked & Misaligned Teeth Treatment

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Straighten Your Smile – Expert Solutions for Crooked & Misaligned Teeth

What are Crooked & Misaligned Teeth?

Crooked and misaligned teeth, also known as malocclusion, occur when the teeth are not correctly aligned when the mouth is closed.

This condition can affect both the appearance and function of the teeth, impacting your smile and bite. Crooked or misaligned teeth can result from a variety of factors, including genetics, thumb-sucking during childhood, injury, or other habits that affect the alignment of teeth.

At our Cairns dental clinic, we offer a range of orthodontic treatments to help align crooked or misaligned teeth, enhancing both the function and aesthetics of your smile.

Symptoms of Crooked & Misaligned Teeth

Common Symptoms of Crooked & Misaligned Teeth Include:

  • Teeth that appear crooked, overlapping, or crowded.
  • Difficulty biting or chewing.
  • Speech difficulties or a lisp.
  • Increased risk of tooth decay and gum disease due to difficulty cleaning misaligned teeth.
  • Jaw pain or discomfort, including symptoms of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders.

Common Causes of Crooked & Misaligned Teeth

Crooked and misaligned teeth are common dental issues that can occur for several reasons.

Genetics

The size and shape of your jaw can be inherited, leading to crowded or crooked teeth.

Thumb-Sucking and Pacifier Use

Prolonged thumb-sucking or pacifier use during childhood can push teeth out of alignment.

Premature Tooth Loss

Losing baby teeth too early or adult teeth too late can affect the alignment of remaining teeth.

Jaw Size and Shape Discrepancies

A small jaw can lead to crowded teeth, while a mismatch between upper and lower jaw sizes can cause misalignment.

Injury

A small jaw can lead to crowded teeth, while a mismatch between upper and lower jaw sizes can cause misalignment.

Poor Oral Habits

Teeth grinding (bruxism) or tongue thrusting can lead to misalignment over time.

Treatment Options for Crooked & Misaligned Teeth

Our Cairns dental clinic offers a variety of orthodontic treatments to correct crooked and misaligned teeth, tailored to suit your needs:

  • Traditional Metal Braces: One of the most effective and widely used treatments for aligning teeth. Braces use metal brackets and wires to gradually move teeth into their correct positions.
  • Clear Aligners (Invisalign®): A popular alternative to traditional braces, clear aligners are nearly invisible, removable, and comfortable. They are ideal for adults and teens looking for a discreet way to straighten their teeth.
  • Ceramic Braces: Similar to traditional braces but with tooth-coloured brackets, making them less visible. They are a great option for patients who need comprehensive treatment but prefer a more aesthetic alternative to metal braces.
  • Lingual Braces: These braces are attached to the back of the teeth, making them completely invisible from the front. They offer a discreet treatment option for more severe cases of misalignment.
  • Dental Veneers: For minor cases of crooked teeth or gaps, dental veneers can be used to improve the appearance of your smile. Veneers are thin shells made of porcelain or composite resin that cover the front surface of the teeth.
  • Retainers: Used after braces or clear aligner treatment, retainers help maintain the new position of teeth and prevent them from shifting back to their original position.

What to Expect During Your Appointment

When you visit our Cairns dental clinic for crooked and misaligned teeth treatment, here is what you can expect:

1. Initial Consultation

Our dentist will conduct a comprehensive examination, including digital X-rays and 3D scans, to assess the position of your teeth and the extent of misalignment.

2. Personalised Treatment Plan

We will discuss the best orthodontic options suited to your needs and lifestyle, providing detailed information on each treatment’s duration, cost, and expected results.

3. Treatment Commencement

Depending on the chosen treatment, we will start the process during your visit or schedule a follow-up appointment to fit braces, aligners, or veneers.

4. Ongoing Care and Adjustments

Regular check-ups will be scheduled to monitor your progress, make necessary adjustments, and ensure your teeth are aligning correctly.

5. Aftercare Instructions

We provide guidance on maintaining oral hygiene with braces or aligners and offer tips on caring for your teeth post-treatment to ensure long-lasting results.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best age for orthodontic treatment?

Orthodontic treatment can be effective at any age. However, the ideal time is during adolescence when the jaw is still growing, making it easier to guide the teeth into their proper positions.

How long does treatment for crooked teeth take?

The duration of treatment varies depending on the severity of the misalignment and the chosen method. Traditional braces and clear aligners typically take 12 to 24 months.

Are clear aligners as effective as braces?

Yes, clear aligners like Invisalign® are highly effective for mild to moderate cases of misalignment. For more complex cases, traditional braces may be recommended.

Do braces or aligners hurt?

Some discomfort or soreness is normal, especially after adjustments or when switching to a new set of aligners. This typically subsides within a few days.

Can adults get braces?

Absolutely! Adults can successfully straighten their teeth with braces or clear aligners, achieving a healthier and more confident smile.

Best Cosmetic dentists in Cairns

Start Your Journey to a Straighter Smile – Book Your Consultation Today!

Ready to achieve a beautifully aligned smile? Schedule a consultation with our skilled dental team in Cairns to explore the best treatment options for crooked and misaligned teeth.

Book online now or call us (07) 4031 2400

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