How to correct a crooked front tooth

Under normal circumstances, the front door teeth refer to incisors. Possible causes for a misaligned incisor include genetics, insufficient space for tooth growth, retained primary teeth, periodontal disease, rickets, and others. It is recommended to visit a reputable hospital and, under the guidance of a qualified dentist, consider corrective treatments such as invisible orthodontics, metal bracket braces, tooth extraction, or medication therapy. Specific explanations are as follows:

1. Genetics

Genetic factors determine the growth pattern and alignment of teeth. If there is a family history of crooked incisors, the likelihood of an individual developing the same issue increases. Maintaining good oral hygiene and scheduling regular dental checkups are important preventive measures. Invisible orthodontic treatment may be performed under a doctor's supervision. This method gradually moves teeth into their proper positions through controlled external force, improving dental aesthetics. The typical reference cost for invisible orthodontics is 500–3,000 yuan per tooth. Improvements are generally visible within 1–2 years after treatment, although potential side effects may include tooth loosening or gum recession.

2. Insufficient Space for Tooth Growth

Limited space for tooth development is usually caused by inadequate jawbone growth or abnormally large teeth, which can lead to crowding and displacement of incisors during eruption. A balanced diet that supports healthy jaw development is recommended. Metal bracket orthodontic treatment may be conducted under medical supervision. This typically involves extracting teeth that interfere with alignment, followed by applying pressure via metal brackets and archwires to guide teeth into correct positions. The typical reference cost for metal bracket braces is 5,000–40,000 yuan per course of treatment. Relief is usually observed within 1–3 years post-treatment, though complications such as infection may occur.

3. Retained Primary Teeth

If primary (baby) teeth fail to fall out on time, they can obstruct the eruption of permanent teeth, causing incisors to shift from their normal position. Encouraging children to eat more hard foods may help promote natural shedding of baby teeth. When necessary, tooth extraction may be performed under a doctor’s guidance. This procedure involves removing the problematic tooth using dental instruments, allowing the displaced incisor to return to its proper position. The typical reference cost for tooth extraction is 200–1,200 yuan per tooth. Improvement is generally seen within 1–2 weeks after the procedure, although pain or discomfort may occur.

4. Periodontal Disease

Periodontal disease is commonly caused by poor oral hygiene. It leads to destruction of the supporting periodontal tissues, resulting in loss of support and subsequent shifting of incisors. Symptoms may include redness, swelling, and bleeding of the gums. Treatment should follow medical advice and may include medications such as metronidazole tablets, amoxicillin capsules, or roxithromycin tablets.

5. Rickets

Rickets is caused by vitamin D deficiency or abnormal calcium and phosphorus metabolism. It affects skeletal development, including the jaws and teeth, leading to malalignment of incisors. Associated symptoms may include bone deformities and growth delays. Treatment should be administered according to medical guidance and may include calcium carbonate and vitamin D3 granules, vitamin D drops, or calcium gluconate oral solution.

In daily life, it is important to maintain good oral hygiene, undergo regular dental checkups and professional cleaning, follow a balanced diet to support normal jaw and tooth development, and avoid harmful oral habits such as biting hard objects or thumb-sucking.