Crowded teeth or malocclusion is a problem leading to misalignment in teeth. It occurs when the size of the jaw is less than the size of the teeth, leaving teeth no space to grow in and is a mostly hereditary trait.

This article explains the treatment options for crowded teeth.

Classification and diagnosis
Crowded teeth or malocclusion happens when your teeth are misaligned. This not only looks bad but also leads to other health problems. To understand the severity of the crowded teeth problem, a dental X-ray is taken. Based on the degree of misalignment, there are three classes of malocclusion:

• Class 1 is when there is an overlap of upper and lower teeth. This is a basic form of crowded teeth and may not create health problems.
• Class 2 is when there is an overbite. This can cause various types of problems and also decreases your confidence as it affects appearance.
• Class 3 is where there is an underbite and the lower jaw is protruding.

Treatment
Crowded teeth need to be treated at the soonest as treatment is more effective in children than it is in adults. If it is the class 1 type of crowded teeth, it may be very mild and may not even be noticeable and can be ignored. For other types of crowded teeth, it is best to opt for treatment.

Following are the treatment options that can be used:

• Dental braces
  Braces are the best solution to treat crowded teeth. They have a wire with brackets, which are fixed tightly to the teeth. Braces help to correct alignment problems over a period of time. In cases where the teeth are too crooked, they may need to be removed.
• The process of fitting the braces and tightening them regularly takes time and needs a lot of patience. It might cause some initial discomfort but its effects are almost permanent. Once the braces are removed, a retainer has to be worn to ensure that the teeth remain in its position.
• Aligners
  This is a new solution to the problem of malocclusion. Aligners are removable in nature and almost invisible. They are an excellent option where the patient is worried about their looks while wearing braces.
• However, they are quite expensive as aligners can be worn for a period of a few weeks only, after which a new set has to be fitted.
• Retainers
  Retainers can be attached to the inner surface of the teeth and help to prevent teeth from changing their alignment. However, they are permanently fixed and have to be removed by the dentist in case you decide you don’t want them anymore.
• Veneers
  Veneers made from porcelain can be fitted to correct crowded teeth. This solution is also aesthetically pleasing. But, it is suitable only in case of moderate misalignment. They can also be used along with braces for a more effective solution.
• Appliances
  In some cases, orthopedic appliances can be used on the jaw to correct the alignment. These appliances are not very popular as they aren’t aesthetically pleasing and also take a lot of time for the effects to show.

In severe cases, surgical treatment is essential to prevent further health problems.