Fixing crooked or misaligned teeth is not simply about improving the smile’s appearance. Misaligned teeth often contribute to other problems like gum disease, tooth decay, and TMJ dysfunction. Our Severna Park dentists can evaluate your occlusion (bite) and discuss treatment options, which may involve an orthodontic referral or care in our office.
Why Straighten Crooked Teeth?
Crooked or misaligned teeth can make brushing and flossing a challenge, allowing food, debris and plaque to build up between the teeth. Even with daily care and routine visits to the dentist, this build-up can cause tooth decay and gum disease.
Misaligned teeth can interfere with proper chewing and/or speech. In addition, misaligned teeth can create disharmony between teeth, jaw, and muscles of mastication/chewing. This can lead to headaches, teeth grinding, TMJ related issues and worn or broken teeth.
Orthodontics
If you need orthodontic treatment we can provide a referral to a local orthodontist and help to coordinate your treatment and follow-up care..
Straightening Teeth Without Braces
For patients who wish to avoid braces, we can provide alternative treatments including cosmetic tooth bonding, porcelain veneers and dental crowns.
- Dental Bonding – Cosmetic dental bonding is a simple procedure, typically completed in a single visit. We will apply a tooth colored, biocompatible composite resin directly to the tooth. The composite material is sculpted into the proper shape and form, then “bonded” to the tooth using a special light.
- Porcelain Veneers – Porcelain veneers are a great way to straighten teeth without the use of braces. Made of ultra-thin, translucent ceramic material, porcelain veneers have a highly aesthetic and natural appearance. Porcelain veneers cover the front and sides of teeth and can be used to address other cosmetic concerns such as gaps between teeth or discolored teeth.
- Dental Crowns – A dental crown is a tooth-shaped cap placed over a tooth that is misshaped or crooked. Like a porcelain veneer, a dental crown covers the entire tooth rather than just the front or sides. Dental crowns are also used to treat teeth that have been badly damaged, cracked or suffer from tooth decay.