If you’ve ever been told that erupting wisdom teeth cause crowding of the other teeth, particularly the front teeth, you’re not alone. This has been a widely held belief for years, but modern dental research paints a clearer picture of what actually causes crowding—and it’s not wisdom teeth. Let’s break down the myth and uncover the real causes of tooth crowding.
Breaking Down the Statement
1. “Myth that erupting wisdom teeth cause crowding”:
- Popular Belief: Many people think that when wisdom teeth erupt, they push other teeth forward, causing the front teeth to overlap or become crooked.
- Scientific Evidence: Research shows that wisdom teeth do not exert enough force to cause significant movement or crowding of the other teeth. In fact, crowding can occur even in individuals who have had their wisdom teeth removed or never developed them in the first place.
If you’re experiencing crowding, it might be worth exploring other possible causes with your dentist. For a more in-depth look at Invisalign as a convenient way to address crowding, check out our Invisalign page for short videos that demonstrate a very clear and dramatic change to make your smile even better.
2. “Teeth independent in arch. Not on abacus”:
This analogy suggests that teeth are not rigidly fixed in a straight row like beads on an abacus. Rather, teeth are independent in the arch, and their position depends on various factors, including genetics and environmental influences.
Teeth are held in place by the periodontal ligament and alveolar bone, which allow for slight, natural movements over time. However, the shifting and crowding we often see isn’t typically due to the eruption of wisdom teeth.
3. “Forces are from grinding, clanking, tooth position, jaw shape, clenching, lip and tongue forces”:
This part points to the real culprits behind crowding:
- Grinding (Bruxism): Excessive grinding or clenching can wear down teeth, alter their alignment, and cause them to shift over time. For those struggling with bruxism, a nightguard might be recommended to protect your teeth from this pressure.
- Tooth Position and Jaw Shape: Genetics play a significant role in how the jaw develops and how teeth are positioned. Sometimes, a smaller jaw or a mismatch between tooth size and jaw size can lead to crowding.
- Developmental Factors: The way the jaw develops during childhood and adolescence affects the space available for teeth to align properly.
- Lip and Tongue Forces: The tongue and lips exert continuous pressure on teeth, which can lead to misalignment:
- Tongue Thrusting: This occurs when the tongue pushes forward while swallowing, which can cause teeth to protrude.
- Lip Pressure: Constant pressure from the lips can affect the positioning of front teeth, particularly in younger patients.
For further details on how to prevent or address misalignment, check out our cosmetic dentistry page.
Why the Myth Exists
The belief that wisdom teeth cause crowding likely persists because of the timing of their eruption. Wisdom teeth typically emerge in the late teens or early 20s—around the same time many people notice their front teeth becoming more crowded. This timing leads to a convenient, albeit inaccurate, assumption that wisdom teeth are the cause.
For years, dentists justified the removal of wisdom teeth as a preventive measure for crowding. While wisdom teeth extraction can be necessary for reasons such as infection, impaction, or decay, preventing crowding is not a valid reason for removal. For more information on the reasons for wisdom tooth extraction, visit the American Dental Association website.
The Truth About Crowding
So, if wisdom teeth aren’t the culprit, what is?
Crowding of the teeth, particularly the lower front teeth, often results from a natural process called late mandibular growth.
The lower jaw continues to grow slightly into a person’s 20s, which can change the alignment of the teeth. This growth can reduce the space available for lower front teeth, leading to minor crowding. This phenomenon can occur even if wisdom teeth have been removed or never developed, demonstrating that the cause of crowding is much more complex than just the eruption of wisdom teeth.
Conclusion
So, the belief that erupting wisdom teeth cause crowding is largely a myth. Instead, crowding is influenced by a combination of factors such as grinding, jaw shape, developmental patterns, and even the forces exerted by the lips and tongue. If you’re experiencing crowding or noticing changes in your dental alignment, it’s important to discuss it with your dentist or orthodontist to determine the actual cause and explore the best treatment options.
At Dr. Yankie’s office, we offer a range of cosmetic and orthodontic treatments, including Invisalign and veneers, to help you achieve the smile you deserve. Schedule your consultation today to learn more about how we can address your specific dental needs.
