Crowding & Spacing of the Teeth

Crowding of the Teeth

Crowding refers to the lack of space for all the teeth to fit normally within the jaws. The teeth may be twisted or displaced. Crowding occurs when there is a discrepancy in the tooth to jaw size relationship or when the teeth are larger than the available space. Crowding can be caused by improper eruption of teeth and early or late loss of primary teeth.

Crowding should be corrected because it can:

• prevent proper cleaning of all the surfaces of your teeth
• cause dental decay
• increase the chances of gum disease
• prevent proper function of teeth
• make your smile less attractive

How can crowding be orthodontically corrected?

Extra space can be created by expansion of the arches or extraction of teeth. Once space is created, braces will eliminate crowding and align the teeth. Correction of crowding can help prevent dental decay and periodontal disease by improving the ability to remove plaque from the teeth. Teeth may also be reshaped to create space for alignment.

Spacing of the Teeth

Spacing (the opposite of crowding) refers to an excess of space for your teeth that results in gaps between your teeth. This generally occurs when the teeth are smaller than the available space. Spacing can also be caused by protrusive teeth, missing teeth, impacted teeth or abnormal tissue attachments to the gums. Adverse tongue activity as well as discrepancies between the upper and lower jaws can also lead to spacing.

Spacing should be corrected because it can:

• result in gum problems due to the lack of protection by the teeth
• prevent proper functioning of the teeth
• make your smile less attractive

How can spacing of the teeth be orthodontically corrected?

The spaces can be closed by moving the teeth together and properly aligning them within the arch.