Common Causes of Crooked Teeth

There are many reasons why teeth can become crooked. Some are due to habits like thumb sucking, while others are due to the way the teeth come in. Here are some of the most common causes of crooked teeth.

Habits

One of the most common causes of crooked teeth is habits. This includes things like thumb sucking, which can put pressure on the teeth and cause them to become crooked. Other habits that can cause crooked teeth include using a pacifier for too long, tongue thrusting, and mouth breathing. If you have any of these habits, it’s important to try to break them as soon as possible to avoid further damage to your teeth.

Teeth Grinding

Teeth grinding, also called bruxism, is another common cause of crooked teeth. This habit usually occurs at night and can be caused by stress or anxiety. Teeth grinding can damage the teeth and make them more likely to become crooked. If you think you may be grinding your teeth at night, talk to your Pittsburgh Area orthodontist about getting a mouth guard to protect your teeth.

Incorrect Jaw Position

The position of your jaw can also affect the alignment of your teeth. If your lower jaw is positioned too far forward or your upper jaw is positioned too far back, it can cause your teeth to become crooked. This is usually something that you’re born with and cannot be changed, but there are treatments available to help improve the alignment of your teeth.

Crooked teeth can be caused by a variety of things, from habits like thumb sucking to the position of your jaw. If you have crooked teeth, there are treatments available that can help improve their appearance. Ask us today about the best treatment option for you.