In this type of malocclusion, the jaw alignment is normal but the teeth in one
or both jaws are crowded. Problems like crooked teeth may run in the
family. Crowding is due to an imbalance between tooth size and jaw size.
Teeth that are crowded affect your bite, make it more difficult to chew
your food and can cause abnormal wearing of the teeth. Because the teeth
are more difficult to clean, your teeth are more susceptible to tooth decay
and gum disease. Teeth that are out of line and stick out are more easily
chipped due to accidental trauma. Teeth that are crooked can make you
unhappy with the way you look. You may be shy to smile because of your teeth.
Treatment of crooked teeth can be started before all the adult (permanent)
teeth come in. Sometimes the jaws are widened to provide room for your teeth
and sometimes the removal of permanent teeth is necessary to fit the remaining
teeth within your mouth. Orthodontic treatment with braces will eventually
be required to straighten your teeth and provide you with a beautiful smile.
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