Posted on 3/3/2025 by Lehigh Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
Have you noticed your child's teeth coming in at unusual angles? Don't worry, you're not alone. Many children experience this, and it's often nothing to be concerned about. However, it's important to understand what's happening and when you should seek professional help.
Why Do Teeth Come In Crooked?
Several factors can contribute to teeth coming in at odd angles. These include:
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Genetics: If your parents or other family members had crooked teeth, you're more likely to have them as well.
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Early loss of baby teeth: When baby teeth fall out prematurely, it can leave gaps that cause the permanent teeth to erupt in the wrong position.
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Habits: Habits like thumb sucking or prolonged use of pacifiers can put pressure on the developing teeth and cause them to come in crooked.
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Small jaw: Sometimes, a child's jaw is not large enough to accommodate all of their permanent teeth, leading to crowding and misalignment.
When to See an Oral Surgeon
While crooked teeth aren't always a cause for concern, there are some situations where it's important to see an oral surgeon. These include:
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Severe crowding: When teeth are severely crowded, it can be difficult to keep them clean and healthy. This can lead to tooth decay, gum disease, and other problems.
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Impacted teeth: Sometimes, teeth don't erupt properly and become stuck in the jawbone. This is called impaction and requires surgical intervention.
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Pain or discomfort: Crooked teeth can sometimes cause pain or discomfort, especially when they rub against the cheeks or gums.
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Cosmetic concerns: Some people choose to have crooked teeth corrected for cosmetic reasons.
Treatment Options
If your child's teeth are coming in at odd angles, an oral surgeon can recommend various treatment options, depending on the severity of the problem. These options may include:
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Observation: In some cases, especially for young children, the oral surgeon may recommend simply observing the teeth to see if they correct themselves as the child grows.
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Orthodontic treatment: Braces or other orthodontic appliances can be used to gradually move the teeth into the correct position.
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Restorative dentistry: If the crooked teeth are causing pain or discomfort, or if they are impacting other teeth, they may need to be extracted or restored with crowns or other procedures.
Oral Care for Crooked Teeth
It's important to practice good oral hygiene even if your child's teeth are coming in at odd angles. This includes brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and visiting the dentist for regular checkups and cleanings. Good oral care can help prevent tooth decay and gum disease, which can be more challenging with crooked teeth.
Conclusion
If your child's teeth are coming in at odd angles, don't hesitate to consult with an oral surgeon. They can assess the situation and recommend the best course of action to ensure your child's oral health and a beautiful smile. Remember, early intervention is often the key to preventing more serious problems down the road.
Dental Blog | Lehigh Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery | Allentown, PA Check out the dental blog that Lehigh Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery in Allentown, PA put together to educate our patients. Lehigh Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, 1251 S Cedar Crest Blvd #311, Allentown, PA 18103 • (610) 435-6161 • lehighoms.com • 3/17/2025 • Related Terms: oral surgeon Allentown PA •
Have you noticed your child's teeth coming in at unusual angles? Don't worry, you're not alone. Many children experience this, and it's often nothing to be concerned about. However, it's important to understand what's happening and when you should seek professional help.