Have you ever looked in the mirror and noticed that your teeth aren't as straight as you would like them to be? If so, you may have what is known as snaggletooth. But don't worry, you're not alone. In fact, according to the American Association of Orthodontists, over 4 million people in the United States are currently undergoing treatment. So, what is snaggletooth and how can you fix it? Keep reading to find out.

What is Snaggletooth?

Snaggletooth is a term used to describe teeth that are not in alignment with the rest of your teeth. This can happen for a variety of reasons, including genetics, thumb sucking, or an injury to the mouth. While having snaggletooth doesn't necessarily mean that you need braces, it can cause many problems, including difficulty cleaning your teeth properly and an increased risk of tooth decay.

What Causes Snaggletooth?

There are a few different things that can cause snaggletooth, but the most common cause is an overlap between the teeth. This happens when one of the teeth doesn't come in properly, causing it to overlap with the adjacent tooth. In some cases, this is due to genetics, while other times it can be caused by thumb sucking or pacifier use during childhood. Regardless of the cause, an overlap between the teeth can cause several problems.

What Are the Problems Caused by Snaggletooth?

While an overlapping tooth may not seem like a big deal, it can cause some problems. For starters, it can make brushing and flossing difficult, which can lead to cavities and gum disease. Additionally, an overlapping tooth can also rub against the inside of your cheek, which can cause irritation and pain. Finally, an overlapping tooth can also affect your appearance and self-confidence.

How Do I Fix It?

If you're self-conscious about your snaggletooth, there are a few different ways that you can fix it.

Braces

The most common solution for fixing snaggletooth is braces. By wearing braces, the teeth are slowly pulled into alignment over time. This is usually done over 1-2 years, though more severe cases may take longer. While braces are effective, they can be expensive and require regular visits to the orthodontist. In addition, they can be uncomfortable to wear, especially in the beginning.

Surgery

In some cases, surgery may be necessary to fix snaggletooth. This is usually only done in severe cases where the teeth are significantly misaligned. Surgery is typically quicker than braces, but it is also more expensive and carries more risks. As with any surgery, there is always a possibility of complications occurring during or after the procedure.

Do Nothing

In some cases, people may choose to do nothing about their snaggletooth. This is usually because the condition is not severe enough to warrant treatment or because the person cannot afford treatment. While this may be fine in the short term, it's important to keep in mind that snaggletooth can get worse over time if left untreated. In addition, it can also lead to other dental problems such as gum disease or tooth decay.

Conclusion

If you're looking to fix your snaggletooth, there are a few options available to you depending on your budget and the severity of your condition. The most common solution is braces; however, surgery may be necessary in some cases. Keep in mind that if you do nothing about your snaggletooth, it may get worse over time and lead to other dental problems down the road.