What are protruding or prominent front teeth?
Protruding or prominent front teeth is an orthodontic concern characterised by front (or “anterior”) teeth that stick out or forward over the bottom teeth below.
What causes it?
The causes of protruding or prominent front teeth are often hereditary, but may also be the result of:
- Crowding
- A jaw defect where the top jaw is too far forward or the bottom too far back
- Tongue-thrusting, where your tongue pushes forward against the front teeth when you swallow
- Mouth-breathing
- Habits such as thumb-sucking
- Misuse of dummies or baby bottles while the mouth and teeth were developing
What impact does it have?
Protruding or prominent front teeth may have a cosmetic impact on the sufferer, as well as affecting the ability to maintain good oral hygiene. It may also put undue pressure on one or more of your jaw joints and cause premature tooth wear.
How is it treated?
Protruding or prominent front teeth can be treated in several ways based on the cause. More severe cases may be best treated with a combined surgical and orthodontic approach, where others may be treated with the removal of teeth and orthodontic treatment, or simply orthodontic treatment alone.
To find out more about protruding or prominent front teeth, and your treatment options, contact us today to organise a free consultation with Specialist Orthodontist, Dr David Austin.