Are you or someone you know bothered by front teeth that protrude more than normal? These are frequently referred to as “buck teeth.”
Buck teeth can affect the appearance of your smile and how your teeth function. They can arise due to genetic factors, childhood habits like thumb-sucking, or jaw size discrepancies. It’s important to address this in order to prevent potential dental issues and boost your self-confidence at the same time.
At Lakewood Dental, we offer treatments like customized appliances and Invisalign near you that can effectively remedy buck teeth and other tooth alignment issues. Please contact us to find out more.
What are Buck Teeth?
Buck teeth refer to a condition where the upper front teeth extend outward more than the lower front teeth. This creates a distinctive appearance where the upper teeth are much more visible, known as an overbite. It’s a common problem that can impact how your teeth fit together.
Depending on severity and individual preferences, treatment options are available to correct this.
What Causes Buck Teeth?
The severity and underlying causes of the different types of buck teeth are important to understand so you can accurately discuss your situation with your dental team and they can advise the best course of treatment. Such factors include:
- Habits. Persistent thumb sucking or using a pacifier for too long can disrupt how teeth naturally line up and impact jaw development.
- Injuries. Accidents or sports injuries to the mouth can shift teeth and change how the jaw fits together, potentially causing front teeth to stick out.
- Genetics. Traits like central front teeth can run in families, passed down from parents.
- Other Factors. Conditions like tongue thrusting, crowded or missing teeth, teeth grinding (bruxism), or unusual tooth shapes can also contribute to this condition.
Why You Should Care About Buck Teeth
Your teeth don’t just affect the aesthetic of your smile—they play a significant role in your everyday life in a variety of ways, however understated:
- Increased Risk of Injury. When teeth stick out, they’re more likely to get injured during accidents or falls.
- Chewing and Speaking Issues. If your teeth don’t line up well, it can make chewing food harder and affect how clearly you speak.
- Self-Esteem. Having noticeable buck teeth can make you feel self-conscious about your smile and appearance, which can impact your confidence.
Treating Buck Teeth
Treating buck teeth can be done via a few different methods, each of which can be tailored to your unique requirements. Common options include the following:
1. Braces or Aligners
Whether you go for classic braces or the clear, barely-there aligners like Invisalign, these treatments gently move your teeth into better positions over time. Braces use wires and brackets, while aligners are clear trays you can remove.
2. Dental Appliances
Sometimes dentists suggest things like palate expanders or retainers. Palate expanders widen the upper jaw, making more room for teeth and helping them fit together better as they grow.
3. Oral Surgery
In more serious cases, oral surgery might be needed. This can mean adjusting both teeth and jaws to align everything just right, improving how your smile looks and your mouth works.
These methods don’t just correct buck teeth; they also ensure your overall dental health is in good shape and give you a smile you’ll love to show off.
Obtain Your Best Smile at Lakewood Dental
At Lakewood Dental, we understand that tooth misalignment like buck teeth can lead to a number of dental challenges. Visiting a dental professional and discussing the best way to address this is the first step towards obtaining a smile you can be proud of every single day. We provide different treatment options that can and will be tailored to meet your restorative needs and cosmetic goals.
So, don’t wait! Consult our dentist in Saskatoon today to learn more.