So, what is a snaggle tooth? It’s basically a tooth that’s out of alignment with the rest of your pearly whites. They often stick out, disrupting the nice, smooth curve you’d expect from a perfect smile.
Let’s take a closer look at what causes snaggle teeth, what kind of issues they can create, and how you can fix them.
The science behind snaggle teeth
Why do some people have snaggle teeth and others don’t? The answer seems to lie in a combination of factors.
Genetic factors
Heredity plays a significant role in whether you’ll have a snaggle tooth. Genes can influence the size of your jaw and the way your teeth develop, sometimes leading to a misalignment. Research suggests that particular genes that are involved in the development of the face and head can make it more likely you’ll have a tooth out of place.
Dietary and environmental influences
Modern diets might also play a role. Today, many people eat softer foods that don’t require as much chewing, and that can affect how the jaw develops. Environmental factors such as thumb sucking or prolonged pacifier use in childhood can also influence tooth alignment.
How do snaggle teeth affect your health?
Snaggle teeth may look interesting, but they can affect your health in a few ways:
- Dental health: Snaggleteeth can cause gum problems and may increase plaque and tartar buildup because they can be hard to keep clean.
- Misalignment and bite problems: Snaggleteeth can cause malocclusion, which, in turn, can lead to TMJ pain.
- Speech and chewing: In some cases, severe snaggleteeth can affect speech or make it harder to chew.
Corrective measures and cosmetic solutions
If you’re not a fan of your snaggletooth, there are a few ways to correct it.
Traditional braces
Traditional braces are a reliable way to fix a wide variety of misalignments. The brackets and wires work by constantly putting gentle pressure on your teeth, gradually shifting them into the correct positions.
Clear aligners (Invisalign)
If you’re looking for something more discreet than traditional braces, you might consider clear aligners. Invisalign straightens your teeth using a series of custom-made, removable aligners.
Clear aligners aren’t for everyone, though. They work best for mild misalignments.
Other options
Once you’ve had braces or aligners, you’ll likely need to use a retainer to keep your teeth from moving out of alignment again.
In some cases, there’s not enough room in the mouth for all the teeth, and the dentist may recommend extracting a tooth to create more space.
To fix or not to fix?
Society’s views of imperfections are evolving, and individuality is becoming more accepted.
Whether you should embrace your snaggle tooth or consider fixing it is a personal decision.
Think about your preferences and the health of your teeth when deciding.
In Closing
Snaggle teeth are teeth that are out of alignment. They can be a health concern, an aesthetic issue, or both.
Before you decide what to do about a snaggle tooth, it’s important to talk with your dentist. Ultimately, the decision about how to handle your snaggle tooth comes down to your personal preference and your overall health.