Having crooked teeth can negatively affect your confidence and overall happiness, but it can also have a negative effect on your health. Here are some common and avoidable health effects of crooked teeth.
Halitosis
When teeth overlap, they create tight spaces that can’t be reached with a toothbrush, and bacteria can thrive in these areas. High bacteria populations can cause bad breath and, over time, they can create more serious problems if you don’t see an orthodontist.
Accelerated Tooth Wear
Crooked teeth can mean that there is excess friction against their surfaces, which causes teeth to wear prematurely. If this continues, teeth can lose their protective enamel and, ultimately, be more vulnerable to cavities.
Difficult Maintenance Can Lead to Serious Disease
Gum disease occurs when the gums become inflamed and infected. This condition is a common result of crowded teeth, which are more difficult to clean. Although gum disease is reversible, it can cause more persistent health issues such as diabetes and heart disease.
Do you have crooked teeth? You may also be experiencing different problems from those listed above. Check this detailed infographic from Labbe Family Orthodontics for other symptoms of crooked teeth to be aware of.