My Child’s Teeth Are Crowding—What Should I Do Next?
Noticing that your child’s teeth are coming in crowded can be concerning, but the good news is that early action can make a big difference. Dental crowding in children is more than just a cosmetic issue—it can lead to long-term oral health problems if left untreated. If you’re seeing overlapping teeth, twisted teeth, or not enough space for new teeth to erupt, here’s what you should know and what steps to take next. Why Teeth Crowding Happens Crowding occurs when there isn’t enough room in the jaw for all of the teeth to erupt into their correct positions. This lack of space causes teeth to shift, overlap, or rotate, and can prevent permanent teeth from coming in altogether. Some of the most common causes of crowding include: A small jaw or underdeveloped dental arches Prolonged thumb sucking or pacifier use Mouth breathing Early or late loss of baby teeth Genetics In many cases, crowding begins to show [...]