Malocclusion & Crooked Teeth: Will I Need Teeth Removed for Braces?

Written by: Sam Ghosh

Orthodontic tools after removing a tooth

Updated on October 31, 2022

Braces may be required for a variety of reasons, including jaw and tooth alignment issues. A variety of factors, including malocclusion causes jaw problems and tooth misalignment. Malocclusion can affect your smile medically, while braces can correct the alignment of your teeth and jaw.

What Is Malocclusion?

An orthodontic issue known as malocclusion is characterized by unevenly spaced or overlapping teeth. Dental disorders include tooth misalignment, open bites, and crossbites are types of malocclusion.  

If you don’t seek out orthodontic treatment for a malocclusion, it could wear down the good teeth you do have in your mouth. And because these issues make it difficult to maintain proper dental hygiene at home, tooth decay can occur in neighboring teeth. Because of this, you are also at risk of developing halitosis, cavities, and gum disease. 

Various types of malocclusion can affect your face profile in addition to the oral cavity. Circles under the eyes and, in rare instances, a receding chin, are more probable in those with untreated dental issues like severe overbites, tooth crowding, and incorrectly spaced teeth.

The Medial Repercussions of Malocclusion

Maintaining good dental hygiene at home can be difficult for people with incorrect bite or malocclusion. If your teeth are not correctly aligned, they will be more difficult to clean because your toothbrush may not be able to reach every surface. Also, flossing can be difficult with crowded teeth. 

Like other dental conditions, malocclusion and overcrowding can impair the appearance of your teeth. Getting orthodontic treatment is a great way to improve your oral health-related quality of life. Patients typically have braces and veneers as part of an orthodontic treatment plan to improve oral function and overall appearance. However, one advantage of these devices is that they can address health problems including migraines, clicking jaws, and bad posture that might not be dental-related.

Do Teeth Need To Be Extracted For Braces?

Tooth extraction may occasionally be required to provide room in the mouth for orthodontic appliances like braces. Removing teeth in children whose permanent teeth have not come in yet is rarely required. The state of an adult’s teeth will determine whether or not orthodontic treatment will require teeth extractions.

Improvement in Appearance

Orthodontic treatment not only corrects the issues caused by poor teeth alignment, but it also gives you a more attractive and healthy smile. Dr. Sam Ghosh is an expert orthodontist with offices in Allentown and Pottsville with over 25 years of experience. He can offer you additional information and specific dental procedures that can help you get straight teeth, a beautiful smile, and improve your confidence.

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