What Are Flared Teeth?
Flared teeth, or teeth that flare out, happen when the front teeth stick outwards, making them look uneven or misaligned. This can occur naturally or after orthodontic treatments, such as braces. Many people notice their teeth flare out after braces, which can be frustrating after spending months or years working towards a straight smile. Understanding why this happens and what you can do about it is key to maintaining your dental health and aesthetics.
What Causes Teeth to Flare Out?
There are several reasons why teeth flare out, and it’s important to identify the root cause before seeking treatment:
1. Jaw Structure and Genetics
For some people, teeth flared out due to their jaw’s shape and size. If the jaw is too narrow, the teeth may not align correctly, leading to flaring.
2. Braces or Other Orthodontic Treatments
A common cause for flared teeth after braces is poor alignment during treatment. Sometimes, braces can unintentionally push the front teeth forward if there was overcrowding or excessive force used during adjustments. In some cases, not wearing a retainer properly after braces can lead to teeth flaring out again.
3. Missing Teeth
When molars or premolars are lost, the front teeth can shift and start to flare out. This happens because the back teeth no longer provide enough support for the rest of the teeth, causing them to move forward.
4. Habits Like Tongue Thrusting
Habits such as tongue thrusting, which involves the tongue pushing against the teeth during swallowing or speaking, can slowly force the front teeth forward over time. Other habits like thumb sucking can also contribute to this issue.
5. Gum Disease
Severe gum disease can weaken the bones and tissues that hold the teeth in place, which may lead to teeth flaring out as they become loose and shift.
How to Correct Flared Teeth
If you’re wondering how to fix flared teeth, there are several treatment options available depending on the severity of the flare and the cause behind it. Here’s a breakdown of the most common solutions:
1. Retainers and Orthodontic Adjustments
For mild teeth flare after braces, a retainer might be all it takes to get things back on track. In more complicated cases, your orthodontist may need to make some minor adjustments to your braces or aligners to correct the position of your teeth.
2. Braces or Clear Aligners
If your flared teeth after braces weren’t adequately addressed or if flaring occurs later on, further orthodontic treatment may be necessary. Clear aligners or traditional braces can help bring the teeth back into alignment, offering a long-term solution.
3. Cosmetic Solutions Like Bonding or Veneers
In some cases, dental veneers or bonding can provide a more cosmetic fix for flare teeth. These treatments work well for people who don’t mind a more aesthetic approach rather than a functional one.
Flared Teeth: Before and After Braces
Wondering what happens with flared teeth before and after braces? Here’s a brief look at what you can expect during and after your treatment:
Before Braces:
If your teeth are already flared out due to crowding or a narrow jaw, braces will begin by moving the teeth into a better position. However, the initial phases of treatment might make the teeth appear even more flared temporarily before they start to align.
After Braces:
Sometimes, teeth flared out after braces due to factors like inconsistent retainer use. The key to preventing this is ensuring you follow your orthodontist’s aftercare plan and wear your retainer as instructed.
How to Prevent Teeth Flare After Braces
To keep your teeth from flaring after your braces come off, there are a few strategies you can follow:
✅ Wear Retainers Consistently: Skipping retainers is a common mistake that leads to flared teeth once braces are removed. A retainer helps hold the teeth in place and prevents them from shifting.
✅ Avoid Tongue Thrusting: If you tend to thrust your tongue against your teeth when swallowing, consider working with a myofunctional therapist to help correct the habit.
✅ Maintain Oral Hygiene: Taking care of your gums and teeth will prevent periodontal disease, which can lead to shifting teeth.
✅ Address Missing Teeth: If you’ve lost molars, talk to your dentist about getting dental implants or other replacements to keep the rest of your teeth properly aligned.
Conclusion
Correcting flared teeth is possible with the right approach, whether through braces, aligners, or other dental treatments. If your teeth have flared out after braces or you’ve always struggled with flaring, don’t worry. There are plenty of ways to fix the issue and maintain a healthy smile. Regular visits to your dentist or orthodontist, along with diligent retainer use and proper oral care, will ensure that your teeth stay in the best possible shape.
