We’d all love to prevent crooked teeth before orthodontic treatment is required, but that’s not always possible. You see, crooked teeth are often believed to be a result of genetics, and that includes overbites, underbites, and more. However, some research actually shows problematic teeth and misaligned bites are not the result of genetics, but of poor habits from childhood. These findings suggest crooked teeth can indeed be prevented.
Regardless of whether or not crooked teeth can be avoided, familiarizing yourself with its causes and methods of treatment is a good idea. Whether you suffer from a misaligned bite or crooked teeth, plenty of orthodontic services exist to solve your problems! Let’s take a look at why teeth come in crooked and how, if possible, you can prevent it from occurring.
Crooked Teeth: A Hereditary Trait?
Although some causes of overcrowded teeth can be prevented, genetics has been traditionally thought to be the main culprit. While this claim is speculative, hereditary factors are believed to affect the way teeth come in. For example, human mouths have decreased in size over the centuries due to our eating habits and processed food diets compared to our ancestors, sometimes resulting in overcrowded and crooked teeth. However, modern research has proven additional environmental causes of crooked teeth beyond genetics.
Poor Habits: Disproving Genetics as the Main Cause
In opposition to the claims stating genetics are the main cause of orthodontic issues, many orthodontists now know that harmful habits from childhood promote crooked teeth. Some of these habits contribute to poor jaw development, while others directly affect the positioning of teeth. Below is a list of several factors that may affect jaw and tooth alignment:
- Breathing through the mouth
- Thumbsucking
- Lip sucking
- Tongue thrusting
- Teeth grinding (bruxism)
- Early tooth loss
- Gingivitis
- Poor-fitting dental restorations (crowns)
Crooked Teeth Are Treatable!
As you can see, the true cause of any individual’s crooked teeth has multiple factors. While it could be genetics, poor childhood habits, or a combination of both, crooked teeth and misaligned bites are virtually always treatable. Invisalign, traditional braces, and ceramic braces are all great options for improving your bites and straightening teeth.
At Kraus Orthodontics, we offer every form of treatment listed above: ceramic & metal braces, as well as Invisalign. If you’re interested in perfecting your smile, be sure to contact our Allen, TX office today. You can also give us a call at 469.619.9959.
