Tooronga Family Dentistry in Glen Iris

Why do I need straight teeth in Glen Iris?

You might wonder, “Do we really need straight teeth? After all, crooked teeth aren’t life-threatening!” While this is true, having properly aligned teeth brings many long-term oral health and lifestyle benefits.

Appearance and Confidence

The most noticeable benefit is a confident, attractive smile. Straight teeth help you feel positive about sharing your smile with others.

Healthier Mouth, Fresher Breath, Fewer Problems

But having straight teeth goes well beyond looks:

  • Reduced risk of bad breath: Crooked teeth provide more surfaces and crevices where bacteria can accumulate, increasing the risk of tooth decay, gum disease, and bad breath.

  • Prevents tooth loss and ulcers: Crowding or wide gaps strain gums and disrupt your chewing, which can eventually lead to ulcers and tooth loss.

  • Even wear and chewing: When upper and lower teeth meet unevenly, some teeth may wear down faster, causing abnormal chewing, loss of enamel, and jaw discomfort.

  • Easier cleaning: Straight teeth are simpler to maintain with regular brushing and flossing, helping you prevent dental problems for years to come.

Straightening Crooked or Spaced Teeth

Orthodontic treatments like braces gently guide your teeth into their best position, delivering a harmonious, healthy, and attractive smile. If you have misaligned teeth or just want more information about the benefits of tooth alignment, ask Dr. Kaufman or schedule an appointment for a detailed consultation.

What is wrong with crooked teeth in Glen Iris?

Crooked teeth may affect your appearance or confidence but their major impact is on your oral and overall health. Here are a few reasons why:

  1. Straight teeth allow your gums to fit more snugly around them. It allows for proper oral hygiene by providing easier access to the areas around the gums. Otherwise, there is more room for bacteria to sneak in causing deep pockets in the gums that lead to irreversible bone loss, known as gum disease.
  2. Uneven teeth make chewing and biting more difficult. Teeth function best when they join together in a harmonious way. But when they lack their counterparts, eating is compromised. It will lead to uneven wear of some teeth and cavities in other, which can result in tooth loss.
  3. Protruding upper teeth are more likely to chip or break in the event of an accident.
  4. Crowded teeth create nooks and crannies, that are difficult to reach, for toothbrush bristles and floss. Without proper brushing, plaque builds up and weakens the teeth, damaging the enamel and causing cavities.
  5. Few realize that dental disease can seriously affect their health. Studies have proven that oral infections may lead to heart disease, stroke, diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis.

There are many reasons why a beautiful smile is good for you. For a straight smile or if you would like more information about the bite you have, please ask Dr. Kaufman or schedule an appointment for a consultation.

How to fix Tooth cross bite?

What Is a Crossbite?

A crossbite occurs when the teeth do not align properly. In a normal bite, the upper teeth slightly overlap the lower teeth both at the front and back of the mouth. When the upper and lower rows of teeth meet incorrectly, this is known as a crossbite, and it should be treated as soon as possible.

Crossbites can affect the way you chew, speak, and smile, and may lead to further oral health problems if left untreated.

Consequences of an Untreated Crossbite

When the bite is misaligned, several issues can develop over time:

In growing children, untreated crossbites can also affect facial development. The imbalance may cause the face to grow asymmetrically, potentially leading to teasing, reduced confidence, and emotional distress.

Treatment Options for a Crossbite

The best time to correct a crossbite is during childhood while the jaw and teeth are still developing. However, effective treatments are also available for adults.

Crossbites often result from a narrow upper jaw, and treatment focuses on gently repositioning the teeth and expanding the dental arch through orthodontic methods.

1. Palatal or Maxillary Expander

An orthodontic device that fits over the upper teeth and gradually widens the upper jaw. It is particularly effective in children and adolescents.

2. Removable Expander

A device worn at night to widen the upper palate when only minimal expansion is necessary. This is a less invasive option suitable for mild cases.

3. Surgically Assisted Rapid Palatal Expansion (SARPE)

In adults whose jaws have stopped growing, a surgeon can perform a minor procedure to separate the upper jaw bone slightly. A custom-made expander is then used to widen the upper arch.

4. Braces

Braces may be used as a standalone treatment or following expansion to align the upper and lower teeth correctly, creating a balanced and healthy bite.

Why Early Diagnosis Matters

Correcting a crossbite early helps prevent structural damage to the teeth and jaw joint while improving facial symmetry and function. Left untreated, a crossbite can cause:

  • Tooth wear

  • TMJ discomfort

  • Gum recession

  • Chronic tension in facial muscles

If you or your child show signs of misalignment, it’s important to have the condition evaluated promptly.
For professional advice and treatment options, ask Dr. Kaufman or schedule an appointment for a consultation.