Correction of severe tooth crowding via orthodontic treatment.

This smile makeover simulation illustrates the type of results that correcting severe tooth crowding via the use of orthodontic treatment can give.

Case issues and concerns:

The most obvious issue at hand with this case is the irregular alignment of this person's teeth, both top and bottom. It exists because there's a general mismatch between the total cumulative width of the teeth and the amount of jawbone space that's available. The result is the tooth crowding that's seen.

Gum tissue concerns.

Possibly what's not so obvious is the developing gum condition that exists with this case. When looking at the lower teeth, take note of the light tan calculus (dental tartar) that has formed between the center ones.

This debris, which is attached to the teeth, starts off as dental plaque. But during times when it's not brushed off in a timely fashion it calcifies, thus turning into the tartar deposit you see in the picture.

In regard to this buildup, this person has two issues working against them.

• One is the crooked alignment of their teeth. It makes it more difficult for them to brush and floss their teeth effectively. And as a result it's commonplace that some dental plaque gets left behind.
• The other obstacle is that this location in the mouth (the front side of the front teeth) tends to be drier than other areas. And as a result, the plaque that tends to accumulate here dries out and is therefore harder to brush off.

Potential problems.

The complication associated with tartar build up is that it causes gum tissue inflammation (gingivitis), which may also lead to damage of the bone surrounding the teeth (periodontitis). Both of these conditions can cause gum recession, and especially in the case of periodontitis, lead to tooth loss.

Whether or not this person seeks treatment for their tooth crowding, they should have a dental cleaning and have their dentist evaluate the current status of the area involved.