The Problem With Overlapping Teeth

Even when teeth overlap just a little, issues can arise.

The British appear to have an unwanted reputation, especially in the USA, for having unattractive teeth. One of the most common problems usually exaggerated there is that of crooked and uneven teeth. As we have mentioned before in some of our blogs, this problem is one that many people choose not to correct as they think they would have to wear old style and ‘ugly’ metal dental braces.

Before we move on to discuss the options available to correct teeth that are overlapping at Cygnet Dental, it’s worth thinking about why you should consider doing something about it.

Aesthetics

The most obvious issue with overlapping teeth is that they are often very visible, especially if they are at the front of the mouth, which many are. Even teeth that overlap a little are quite noticeable and this may be because our smiles are one of the first things that people notice about us. Even without taking into consideration any other issues associated with this problem, the way that they detract from your smile is often enough for many of our Wickford dental patients to contact us to see how we can help.

Worn tooth enamel

If a tooth overlaps another, there is often some friction between the enamel of each tooth, meaning that both teeth are at risk of having some enamel worn away. The first sign that this might have happened is often an increase in sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures. If the damage is already done and the teeth are not straightened and treated, the discomfort from tooth sensitivity will only increase. If the enamel has worn away to the extent that the inner part of the teeth has been exposed, you could also find that the teeth start decaying; sometimes quite painfully so, even potentially, causing root canal infections. This is another good reason to have your teeth straightened by us.

Trapped food

In addition to the above, food can become trapped between the two teeth. This might only be a very small amount but it is enough for bacteria to find it and feed on it, releasing enamel damaging acids in the process. As toothbrush bristles are likely to struggle to reach these tight areas, the risk is increased and so using dental floss will help significantly. The best option though is to straighten the teeth and eliminate any small irregular spacing altogether.

Gum disease

As with the above, food particles and bacteria that get trapped in the gums can be harder to remove if the teeth overlap and close the gap that a toothbrush can access. Depending on the nature of the issue, it might also be difficult to reach it with dental floss. This means that gum disease could well become a problem. Gum disease can cause soreness and inflammation and bad breath, but it can also lead to damage being caused to the bone in the area of the tooth. As this happens, the tooth can become loose and you may even lose it. It makes sense then, to correct this problem with modern dental methods.

Braces?

To straighten teeth, dental braces are necessary. It simply isn’t feasible or sensible to try to ‘knock’ the teeth into position as this would be both painful and almost certainly damaging. A gradual process is usually necessary in the shape of a tooth brace. The good news for those of you pulling a face of horror right now, is that you don’t have to wear old style, and very visible, metal braces. Modern orthodontics can be almost invisible and usually come in two different types.

Aligners – These are made from transparent plastic and fit directly over the teeth. They are made from impressions that are taken of your teeth and you will be given a series of these, with each one designed to be worn for a short while before being replaced with the next. These are discreet, removable when eating meals or cleaning the teeth and are therefore convenient too.

‘Cosmetic’ braces – These do use wires and brackets like old style braces, except that these are made from tooth coloured materials and blend in well with your teeth. While these are fixed in the mouth like old style braces, the treatment period is usually shorter where relatively minor corrections are needed, sometimes just taking a few weeks.  This is unlike those where more significant corrections are needed and these can take a year or even more in some cases.

If you are unhappy with an overlapping tooth and would like to see what we can do to help, why not come to our local dental clinic and talk to one of our friendly orthodontic trained dentists who will be able to advise you of the best way forward. You can do this by giving Cygnet Dental a call today on 01268 733078.