At Bates Orthodontics, many of our new patients ask an all-too-familiar question: “How long does it take to fix one crooked tooth?”
If you have even one tooth misaligned, it can change an otherwise perfect smile both visually and hygienically. Crooked teeth may make patients self-conscious and can also lead to challenges with oral hygiene.
Dental professionals recommend that crooked teeth be fixed before adolescence when orthodontic treatment is easier and less time-consuming. Unfortunately, many adults wait years to address the aesthetics of their crooked teeth.
However, there’s good news for those wondering if they’ll need a mouth full of braces for one tooth. Modern orthodontic solutions can straighten crooked teeth in adults and even help correct an entire smile in just a few months.
Our team believes everyone has the right to a smile they are proud of – which is why our team of experienced and skilled orthodontic specialists mastered how to fix one crooked tooth.
This article will take a closer look at some of the most asked questions about correcting and straightening crooked teeth, including:
- Why do teeth become crooked?
- How long does it take for crooked teeth to straighten?
- Do I need braces if I have one crooked tooth?
- Can I use Invisalign for slightly crooked teeth?
Read on to learn more about how to move one tooth back into place and how Bates Orthodontics can give you the smile of your dreams with Invisalign.
Why Do Teeth Become Crooked?
Your teeth contain multiple layers of living tissue called the enamel, dentin, dental pulp, and cementum. The enamel is the white, outermost part of the tooth. Though it’s the most durable tissue in the body, it is not immune to injuries, shifting, or damage.
Several risk factors can cause your teeth to become crooked, including:
- Genetics and heredity
- Ill-fitting retainers
- Prolonged thumb-sucking and pacifier use
- Incorrect oral habits
- Injury from chewing on a hard object
- Poor dental hygiene
- Bad eating habits
Crooked teeth not only affect your smile, but they can also negatively impact your oral hygiene.
Fortunately, the best orthodontists know how to fix one crooked tooth (or a mouth full of them), so it doesn’t affect your appearance or oral health. With good dental health and habits, you can keep your teeth straight and strong.
The Problem with Crooked Teeth
It’s no secret that crooked teeth can make you self-conscious about your smile. Crooked teeth are not only difficult to manage, but they also create problems with your oral care.
Here are some common problems that may result from crooked teeth:
- Tooth decay and cavities
- Protruding teeth
- Speech issues
- Open bite
- Gaps between the front teeth
By working with a team of skilled and experienced orthodontists who know how to fix one crooked tooth, you can quickly regain your confidence with a powerful smile.
But just how much time does it take to straighten teeth exactly?
How Long Does It Take To Fix One Crooked Tooth?
Are you wondering, “How long does it take to straighten one tooth or a mouth full of crooked teeth?”
Once you understand how teeth become crooked and some of the long-term issues associated with crooked teeth, it’s crucial to know how long it will take to fix the problem.
Unfortunately, “How long does it take for crooked teeth to straighten?” doesn’t have a simple answer because everyone’s case is different. Corrective processes depend on many factors, like the severity of your crooked teeth.
Some people can fix one tooth in just a few months, while some cases take years to perfect. A general expectation is six to 18 months for each tooth. However, this time frame varies depending on your dental health and the type of orthodontic treatment you decide to use.
There are two main methods orthodontists use to fix crooked teeth, each with its own advantages:
- Traditional metal braces
- Invisalign clear aligners
Here’s a general overview of each of these methods.
Do I Need Braces for One Tooth That’s Misaligned?
For some patients, braces are necessary to fix a crooked tooth. Even braces for one tooth can straighten crooked teeth in adults.
Braces gradually shift the shape of your jaw. They use pressure to create space for your crooked teeth to shift and move correctly into the desired place.
When it comes to a severely crooked or misaligned tooth, braces are necessary. Traditional braces are a more powerful tool for rotating teeth than Invisalign.
However, if your teeth aren’t overly rotated, then Invisalign for slightly crooked teeth could be a great option for you.
Invisalign for One Crooked Tooth
While some people may need a full set of braces over an extended period, other patients may not need braces at all. Orthodontists can also correct teeth alignment using Invisalign aligners.
Invisalign – a popular alternative to metal braces – is a virtually invisible, removable method of teeth alignment that’s safe and painless. The Invisalign trays are custom-made to fit your teeth and will guide them into place over time without the distraction (and sometimes discomfort) of traditional metal braces.
Invisalign is effective for adults and children and can help fix one crooked tooth without the hassle or potential embarrassment of metal brackets and wires.
So, how long does it take to straighten one tooth with Invisalign?
Like with traditional braces, the time it takes to correct one tooth that’s misaligned will depend on your unique situation. During your initial consultation, your orthodontist will provide insight into the length of time your treatment will take.
However, those who use Invisalign for slightly crooked teeth are often amazed at the quick results they can achieve.
How to Move One Tooth Back Into Place with Invisalign
If you landed here because you were wondering, “How long does it take to fix one crooked tooth?”, you now have your answer (and then some)!
At Bates Orthodontics, we’ve treated many adults, teens, and children who had one tooth misaligned. Every case is unique, and we customize our treatment plans to each patient.
As Richmond’s leading orthodontists for Invisalign and other orthodontic treatments, we guarantee you’ll receive the highest standard of care and end up with a smile you’ll love! Schedule a complimentary consultation with our knowledgeable team of orthodontists to get started. We’ll show how you can successfully use Invisalign for slightly crooked teeth.
Our team can also help answer questions such as:
- How much time does it take to straighten teeth?
- What are the benefits of using Invisalign
- How long does it take to fix one crooked tooth?
- What are the advantages of fixing one crooked tooth?
- How much should I expect to pay for braces for one tooth?
And more!
To find out if you can benefit from orthodontic treatments at Bates Orthodontics, contact Bates Orthodontics today!
