Teeth that are crooked can have both cosmetic and oral health implications, often affecting the fit and function of the bite. Crooked teeth is one of the most common dental concerns. If you have malocclusion, Dr. Sousa will work with you to determine the best treatment plan for straightening your smile and improving your long-term dental health. An experienced cosmetic and restorative dentist, Dr. Sousa takes the time to identify any underlying dental problems related to your crooked teeth so that the dentistry you receive is lasting.
Straighten Teeth Without Braces
If your crooked teeth are not causing a dental problem or affecting the bite, Dr. Sousa offers a range of cosmetic treatments that can provide a straighter smile without orthodontics. From tooth bonding to custom porcelain veneers, a new smile can be created for you using our Smile Design process.
Dr. Sousa will meet with you to evaluate your oral health, discuss your cosmetic goals and analyze your options with digital technology. He works with patients on an individual basis to show them what a treatment can do for their smile using digital photography and wax models, providing the comprehensive information they need to make decisions about their oral health and smile makeover.
- Tooth bonding: cosmetic tooth bonding is a quick, relatively simple, and economical treatment for straightening the appearance of a tooth. Using a composite resin, Dr. Sousa will sculpt your tooth surface into a new shape to improve aesthetics.
- Minimal prep dental veneers: Dr. Sousa has years of training and experience and was one of the first area dentists to develop and widely use dental veneers to address a range of concerns.
- Porcelain veneers: using ultra-thin porcelain ceramic material, Dr. Sousa can expertly craft a beautiful new smile that is straighter, lasting, and highly durable.
Crooked Teeth FAQs
Crooked teeth have functional and cosmetic impacts. Read the answers to these commonly asked questions.
Can crooked teeth lead to other dental problems?
Yes, crooked teeth can create tight spaces that are hard to clean, which allows plaque and bacteria to build up. This can increase your risk for tooth decay and gum disease. Crooked teeth can also cause uneven wear on the teeth and strain the jaw muscles, potentially leading to issues like TMJ disorders. Fixing misalignment can help prevent these complications.
How can crooked teeth affect my bite?
When teeth are crooked, they often don’t meet properly when you bite down, which is known as malocclusion. This can lead to uneven pressure on the teeth and jaw, causing discomfort or difficulty chewing. Over time, it may also result in tooth damage or jaw joint pain. Correcting your bite can improve oral function and comfort.
Can crooked teeth affect speech?
Significant crooked teeth or bite issues can affect how your tongue and lips form sounds. This may result in a lisp or difficulty pronouncing certain words. Aligning the teeth can improve speech clarity in some patients. If you’re experiencing speech problems, we can assess whether your teeth are a factor.
Can crooked teeth cause jaw pain or headaches?
Crooked teeth can lead to a misaligned bite, which may put extra strain on the jaw muscles and joints. This strain can result in jaw pain, headaches, or even temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder symptoms. You might also experience discomfort when chewing or speaking. Orthodontic treatment can help relieve this tension by aligning your teeth and bite.
How long does it take to straighten crooked teeth?
The time it takes to straighten crooked teeth depends on the severity of the misalignment and the type of treatment used. Mild cases might take six months, while more complex issues can take 18 to 24 months. Regular dental checkups and consistent use of aligners or braces help ensure the best outcome. Dr. Sousa will give you a personalized treatment plan.
Can crooked teeth fix themselves over time?
Crooked teeth will not usually straighten on their own. In fact, they may become more crowded or misaligned over time, especially if there is tooth loss or shifting. Early intervention in children can sometimes help guide proper growth, but adults typically need orthodontic treatment.
Schedule A Consultation
Ready to enjoy a straighter, healthier smile? Dr. Sousa is one of the most experienced cosmetic dentists serving Roslyn Heights and surrounding communities. We welcome new patients and provide a different dental experience with a personalized approach. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Sousa, contact us at (516) 253-6873 or request an appointment online.