How to fix crooked teeth?

How to fix crooked teeth? Wondering how to fix crooked teeth that are affecting your confidence and oral health? The good news is that modern dentistry offers several effective solutions for straightening misaligned teeth at any age. According to research from New Zealand’s Herald analysis of dental patterns, crooked teeth affect approximately two-thirds of adults, with studies showing that crowding gets worse with aging, especially for lower incisors [1][2]

Crooked teeth can develop from various factors including genetics, childhood habits like thumb sucking, early loss of baby teeth, or jaw size issues. The human jaw has actually shrunk over millions of years due to our softer modern diet, often leaving insufficient space for all teeth to align properly.

The most effective treatments for fixing crooked teeth include traditional metal braces, clear aligners like Invisalign, ceramic braces, and in some cases, dental surgery. Each option works by gradually applying gentle pressure to move teeth into their correct positions over time.

For adults in Auckland seeking teeth straightening solutions, clear aligners have become increasingly popular due to their nearly invisible appearance and removable design. Traditional braces remain highly effective for more complex cases, while newer technologies like lingual braces offer hidden treatment options.

The treatment duration typically ranges from 12 to 24 months depending on the severity of misalignment. Early intervention often leads to shorter treatment times and better outcomes.

Beyond cosmetic benefits, fixing crooked teeth improves oral hygiene by making teeth easier to clean, reduces risk of tooth decay and gum disease, and can alleviate jaw pain and speaking difficulties.

Related Questions:
What causes teeth to become crooked in adults? Poor oral habits, genetics, injury, and natural aging processes can cause adult teeth to shift and become crooked over time.

Are clear aligners as effective as traditional braces for fixing crooked teeth? Clear aligners work effectively for mild to moderate crooked teeth, but traditional braces remain superior for severe or complex alignment issues.

How much does teeth straightening cost in Auckland? Teeth straightening in Auckland typically costs NZ$6,000-$12,000 depending on the treatment method and case complexity.

Source Links:

  1. Diet or genetics? Why so many NZers have crooked teeth – NZ Herald

  2. Jaw size decreases with age | British Dental Journal – Nature