What Causes Crooked Teeth (and Can You Prevent It?)

Crooked teeth are one of the most common orthodontic problems, affecting millions of children and adults worldwide. While a misaligned smile might seem like a purely cosmetic issue - in some cases, it can be - it can also cause you physical pain or create lowered self‑esteem and social anxiety. The good news is that orthodontic treatment can put an end to these issues and help you regain confidence in your appearance!

In this article, we’ll explore the factors that contribute to crooked teeth, from genetics to childhood habits, and discuss ways to prevent or correct malocclusions for a healthier, happier smile.

The 10 Most Common Causes of Crooked Teeth

There are many potential causes of crooked teeth, reflecting why it is such a commonly faced issue. Let’s take a look at the most notable examples: 

1. Genetics - Inherited Orthodontic Issues

Genetic factors play a significant role in determining tooth and jaw size, shape, and alignment. If one or both parents had extra teeth, crooked teeth, or jaw misalignment, there’s a higher likelihood that their children will inherit similar orthodontic traits.

2. Malocclusion - Jaw Misalignment 

Malocclusion refers to a misalignment between the upper and lower teeth when the jaw is closed. Underbites, overbites, crossbites, and open bites all qualify and can contribute to uneven tooth wear and shifting over time.

3. Overcrowding of Teeth

When the jaw lacks sufficient space to accommodate all of the teeth, they may erupt at odd angles or overlap each other. Overcrowding is one of the most common triggers for misaligned teeth.

4. Early Baby Tooth Loss

Premature loss of primary (“baby”) teeth - whether due to decay, injury, or extraction - can allow adjacent teeth to move into the empty space, blocking the proper eruption path of the permanent teeth.

5. Poor Oral Hygiene

Failing to keep teeth and gums clean can lead to dental cavities and gum disease. Advanced periodontal problems can weaken the structures supporting the teeth, causing them to shift or tilt. 

6. Poor Nutrition

A diet lacking essential vitamins and minerals during childhood can impair jaw and tooth development. For example, deficiencies in calcium or vitamin D may affect your gums, bone growth, and tooth alignment.

7. Myofunctional Habits (Like Thumb-Sucking)

Repetitive oral behaviours (known as myofunctional habits), such as thumb‑sucking, prolonged dummy use, or tongue thrusting, can place abnormal pressure on the developing teeth and jaw, often leading to malocclusions.

8. Dental Trauma

Injuries to the mouth (falls, sports accidents, etc.) can damage or displace teeth and their supporting bone. Traumatic impacts may result in dental tilting, rotation, or gaps that contribute to an uneven bite and often the most severe cases of crooked teeth.

9. Mouth Breathing

Chronic mouth breathing, often caused by issues such as nasal congestion or enlarged tonsils/adenoids, can impact tongue positioning and cause an imbalance in facial muscles, restricting proper jaw growth and alignment.

10. Failing to Wear a Retainer

After orthodontic treatment, failing to wear a retainer as required by your orthodontist allows teeth to gradually shift back towards their original, crooked positions, undoing the great results achieved by braces or aligners.

Do I Need to Get My Crooked Teeth Fixed?

There’s nothing inherently “wrong” with having crooked teeth if they’re solely a cosmetic concern, but it’s still wise to consult an orthodontist; misaligned teeth can sometimes lead to problems with biting, chewing, jaw pain or even oral hygiene down the line (as mentioned next). A professional evaluation can catch any underlying issues early and help you decide whether treatment is necessary, ensuring your smile stays both healthy and confident.

What Issues Are Caused by Crooked Teeth?

There are several consequences of crooked teeth, such as:

• Self‑Esteem Issues: A crooked smile can lead to embarrassment, social anxiety, and a reluctance to smile or speak in front of others.
• Excess or Uneven Wear of Certain Teeth: Misaligned teeth can place abnormal pressure on enamel, causing premature tooth wear, chips, or fractures.
• Speech Difficulties: Gaps, overcrowding, or bite problems may interfere with proper tongue placement, leading to lisps or other speech issues.
• Tooth Decay and Gum Disease: Overlapping or crowded teeth create hard‑to‑clean areas where plaque and bacteria build up, increasing the risk of cavities and, if left untreated, periodontal disease.
• Chewing and Digestion Issues: An improper bite can make it difficult to properly break down food, which might impact digestion or the amount of nutrients you gain from foods.

How Can You Prevent or Reduce the Risk of Crooked Teeth?

Here are a few tips to help you or your child avoid the issues outlined in the last section: 

Arrange an Orthodontic Assessment

It is recommended that children receive a thorough assessment of their teeth and jaw around the age of 7, since their jaws and adult teeth are still developing at this stage. This helps orthodontists spot potential alignment issues early, allowing for simpler, more effective treatment. 

Orthodontic assessments aren't just for children, though. They’re important for adults with concerns over their crooked teeth, helping them receive guidance over what they should do next. This is especially important for those who have been living with pain or discomfort caused by their teeth!

Reduce or Prevent Thumb Sucking & Other Habits

As highlighted earlier, myofunctional habits (such as thumb sucking) are a common yet preventable cause of crooked teeth. By gently weaning your kids off these habits using our 7 effective strategies, you can help prevent harmful reshaping of the jaw and teeth. 

Maintain Proper Oral Hygiene

This is a tip that everyone should be following, regardless of age. Brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and regular dental cleanings help ensure healthy gums and reduce the risk of crooked teeth caused by oral health issues. 

What Are the Options for Straightening Your Crooked Teeth?

Sometimes, crooked teeth cannot be completely prevented. Therefore, you or your child will need corrective treatment provided by an orthodontist, which will involve one of the following solutions: 

Metal Braces

Traditional fixed metal braces use stainless‑steel brackets and wires to apply constant, gentle pressure that shifts teeth into place. They’re the most common and often the most affordable option. Although they’re a highly effective solution, they’re noticeable, and you’ll need occasional tightening appointments.

Ceramic Braces

Ceramic fixed braces work like metal braces but use tooth‑coloured brackets that blend in with your teeth. They’re less visible than metal braces, though ceramic is slightly more fragile and can stain if you don’t avoid certain foods and drinks.

Lingual “Incognito” Braces

Lingual braces are bespoke‑made metal braces attached to the back of your teeth, making them hidden from view. They offer the strength of traditional braces without the visibility, but they can be more expensive and sometimes take a bit longer to get used to when speaking or eating.

Invisalign Aligners

Clear, removable devices designed using 3D scans, Invisalign Aligners gradually move your teeth into proper alignment, swapping to a new set every two weeks. Because you can remove them, it’s easy to eat, drink, and brush normally, but success relies on wearing them for 20 - 22 hours a day

Angel Aligners

Similar to Invisalign, Angel Aligners are clear, custom plastic devices that shift teeth over time. They often come at a slightly lower cost, but not all orthodontists offer them. Just like Invisalign, patient compliance is key for good results; otherwise, the device won’t work as it should!

Palatal Expanders

A palatal expander is a fixed or removable device that widens the upper jaw by gently separating the mid‑palatal suture. It’s typically used in growing children whose jaw bones are still soft enough to respond. This form of treatment is much less commonly offered than braces or aligners.

Contact Our Oxford-Based Practice for a Lasting Solution to Crooked Teeth

If you or your child has crooked teeth, don’t let this common issue cause you more discomfort. Led by Dr Orolloga, our experienced care team has the experience and knowledge to provide a lasting solution to crooked teeth, helping you to feel more confident in your smile. To get started, simply book a FREE 30-minute consultation or contact us today.

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