What Causes Misaligned Midline Teeth?
Midline misalignment is a condition which is quite common among patients. The condition occurs when one or both of the dental arches are asymmetrical in the center points. Midline misalignment may also be called a deviated midline or a dental midline shift.
This dental disorder is relatively common and fortunately, there are various treatment options available. The condition can be treated, complications are rare, and treatments are minimally invasive. The following is a summary of causes and treatments for misaligned midline teeth.
Midline Misalignment – Causes
There are both medical conditions and lifestyle habits which can result in midline misalignment. Below is a summary of common causes of midline misaligned teeth.
Hypodontia or Missing Teeth
Hypodontia is a term used to describe patients who are missing one or more of their adult teeth. This can be caused by issues such as gum disease, tooth decay, injury, or in some cases is a condition the patient is simply born with. Because there is a gap in the mouth, it results in the shifting of the remaining teeth. This ultimately causes a dental midline shift.
Crowded Teeth
Midline teeth can also be disturbed from overcrowding of the teeth. Teeth which grow in abnormally often to not have proper spacing. This occurs when patients do not have adequate in their mouth to accommodate their teeth. Patients may also have a small jaw, resulting in a misaligned midline.
Jaw Misalignment
Crossbite, open bite, and underbite are all different types of jaw misalignments. They result in malocclusion of the teeth, meaning the teeth fail to properly fit together. This can naturally also cause a midline shift.
Bad Habits
Prolonged habits of children sucking their thumb or a pacifier can cause serious orthodontic issues. A common consequence is midline misalignment. Parents should be diligent in regulating their child’s use of a pacifier or sucking of their thumb long into their childhood as it can have long-term effects.
Treatment Options
Patients who suspect they have midline misalignment should follow up with a dentist or orthodontist to discuss their condition and the best treatment options. Treatment options which are commonly used to correct the issue are summarized below.
Braces
Braces are an excellent treatment option and can be used to treat various types of dental misalignments. They are an effective method for the treatment of misaligned midline teeth, which is commonly caused by an abnormal bite. Braces are able to effectively resolve issues at the skeletal level. In addition to correcting a dental midline shift, braces can correct other orthodontic issues and help patients achieve a beautiful and healthy smile.
Invisalign
Invisalign is another popular solution used to treat minor dental midline shift. Major benefits associated with this solution is that invisalign is not visible and does not contain uncomfortable metal brackets and wires. The aligner trays are virtually invisible from the outside, making this treatment especially popular for adults and teenagers. They trays must be removed for eating and drinking, eliminating restrictions which are common with braces. Patients must be diligent in wearing the aligners, however, in order for the treatment to be effective.
Veneers
Porcelain veneers are a great treatment option which can be used to conceal various cosmetic imperfections. This includes misaligned midline teeth. Veneers are incredibly durable and look just like the natural teeth. Veneers are bonded to the teeth and can last for more than ten years when they are properly cared for.
Modern dentistry provides excellent solutions in treating misaligned dental midline. Follow up with a dentist to discuss you options.