How Do You Fix Misaligned Midline Teeth?
Midline misalignment is a relatively common dental condition that’s characterized by an asymmetrical alignment between the center points of the upper and lower arches of teeth. In addition to the aesthetic concerns that arise with a misaligned midline, misaligned teeth can affect the efficacy of the bite, the health and condition of the jaw and the teeth, and they can interfere with the ability to speak clearly and effectively. There are several different treatment options dentists use to repair a misaligned midline, so if you have misaligned midline teeth and are bothered by your skewed smile, the solution starts with a visit to the dentist to learn more about possible treatment. Some treatments rely on orthodontic appliances to gradually shift the teeth back into symmetry and bring each arch’s center point back to the center, while other treatments use cosmetic solutions like dental veneers to create symmetry between the rows. Each treatment option will depend on the severity and cause of midline misalignment, and your dentist will evaluate your teeth to determine whether the issue has arisen solely with the teeth or whether it characterizes a problem with the bite or a concern with the jaw itself.
When midline misalignments arise because of a problem with the bite, like an overbite or crossbite, braces are considered the optimal treatment method. Misalignments caused by malocclusion, which is the technical term for bite problems, can lead to jaw pain, headaches, or damage to the teeth, necessitating a more holistic solution that restores the bite while realigning the teeth. Braces correct the alignment of the teeth and also help nudge minor skeletal misalignments into position, restoring the appearance of the teeth while correcting functional concerns with the bite. As they correct misaligned midline teeth, they also restore the overall dental alignment, improving the appearance of the smile and optimizing the oral and dental health.
Some patients prefer less obtrusive orthodontic treatment solutions, favoring clear alignment trays like Invisalign. Invisalign can be used to correct mild to moderate misaligned midline teeth and may be paired with additional dental devices if needed. These clear aligning trays are barely visible, and they are reported to be more comfortable than braces, as they don’t rely on metal wires or brackets that can poke or otherwise irritate soft oral tissues. Invisalign aligners are also removable, which allows patients to easily enjoy a variety of foods and helps patients keep their teeth clean throughout treatment.
Cosmetic treatments like veneers can also be used to correct midline misalignments and otherwise instantly remodel the appearance of the teeth. These cosmetic treatments are generally used when the concerns caused by a misaligned midline are primarily aesthetic. To place veneers, a cosmetic dentist will shave away a thin layer of tooth enamel before bonding thin, luminous sheets of custom-designed porcelain over the teeth, creating a uniform appearance that’s ideal in size and shape. Restoring the upper front teeth with dental veneers allows cosmetic dentists to adjust misaligned midlines without time-consuming, involved procedures like braces and Invisalign, creating the appearance of alignment and restoring the symmetry and beauty of a lustrous smile.