Crowding & Spacing of Teeth

Crowding Of Teeth

Crowding is the lack of space for all the teeth to fit normally within the jaws. The teeth may be rotated or displaced. Crowding occurs when there is disharmony in the tooth- to-jaw size relationship or when the teeth are larger than the available space. Crowding can be caused by early or late loss of primary teeth, improper eruption of teeth, or a genetic imbalance between jaw and tooth size.

Crowding should be corrected because it can:

  • Make it much more difficult to properly clean all the surfaces of your teeth.
  • Increase the chances of dental decay (because of inadequate cleaning).
  • Increase the chances of gum disease (because of inadequate cleaning).

How can crowding be orthodontically corrected?

Extra space can be created by expansion of the arches or extraction of teeth. Once space is created, braces are used to align the teeth. Correction of crowding can help prevent dental decay and periodontal disease by improving the ability to remove plaque from the teeth.

Spacing Of Teeth

Spacing is the opposite of crowding and is an excess of available space, resulting in gaps between the teeth. This generally occurs when the teeth are smaller than the available space. Protrusive teeth, missing or impacted teeth, or abnormal gum tissue attachments can also cause spacing.

Spacing should be corrected because it can:

  • Result in gum problems due to the lack of protection by the teeth.
  • Prevent proper functioning of the teeth.
  • Make your smile less attractive.

How can spacing of the teeth be orthodontically corrected?

Moving the teeth together and properly aligning them within the jaws can close the spaces.