Tooth Crowding

Tooth crowding is the misalignment of teeth resulting from the inadequate ratio between the teeth and jaw. In such cases, teeth tend to overlap one another and would require further attention in cleaning them. As a result, crowded teeth are commonly left inadequately cleaned and thus cause periodontal diseases, occlusion problems, and caries. This condition may be caused by different reasons such as the teeth being oversized in proportion to the jaw (stated above) and also extracting deciduous (milk) teeth before they are ready to exfoliate themselves.

 

Orthodontics is definitely the most effective treatment plan for tooth crowding, especially in its extreme forms. Other treatment plans are also feasible in mild cases of tooth crowding or when the patient is unwilling to undergo orthodontics.

Cosmetic Contouring

In cases where the tooth crowding is limited and the enamel is sufficiently thick, a slight contouring of the edges and sides - completed in such a way that the tooth remains undamaged - somewhat corrects the mal positioned appearance of the teeth. Polishing and evening the edge of the teeth after the contouring is advisable. This procedure is not advisable for children for the nerves of children’s teeth are larger and thus more sensitive; this could be discomforting for them.

 

Brief malocclusion of teeth

 

                      Fix the problem by briefly cutting

                              edge and sides of teeth

Bonding/Composites

Composite restorations and slight cosmetic contouring of teeth are used simultaneously in many conditions. If, for instance, the two central teeth were protruded and the two lateral ones retruding, composite could be added to the outside of the lateral teeth giving them a more protruding look. The edges and sides of the central teeth should also be slightly contoured so that they look retreating. This is a treatment plan faster and cheaper than orthodontics incurring hardly any damage to the tooth.

 

Before

After

Laminating or Facing

Laminating, like bonding, is a viable option in case of slight or medium-degree tooth crowding. Prior to laminating, a small portion of the outside and edge of the tooth must be grinded and subsequently an impression is taken. Laminates are then prepared in the lab and bonded to the teeth.

As the backside (lingual side) of the teeth is not contoured, it may be possible that the thickness of the teeth would not be uniform and, consequently, the patient might not be accustomed to the new condition of his/her lips and tongue. This uncomfortable sensation would be alleviated in a few days' time and the patient would get used to the new condition.

 

Before

After

Before

After

Capping

Capping is also an option for more extended tooth crowding or when some of the teeth already have crowns and the patient is not opting for orthodontic treatment.