As mentioned in a previous post, this too is a highly controversial question. The general consensus by orthodontists today is that the presence or removal of wisdom teeth have no effect on the crowding of permanent teeth. This is what is taught in dental schools currently. So, of course I will tell you that I agree with this. However, I will add in a bit of the general public’s view on the matter as I have seen it in my practice.

I cannot tell you how many patients I have encountered who swear to me that their teeth have shifted since their wisdom teeth came in or were removed. Since I cannot remember everyone’s teeth exactly and don’t have before and after photos, I have no way to verify this. I am not in the practice of taking random dental photos for no apparent reason and so I have none to reference. I do believe, however, that most people are greatly in touch with their bodily happenings and as such wouldn’t make the statement up for no good reason. So, this will remain a question that I cannot answer with absolute certainty. One thing I have learned is, that science can change and so I can’t always be sure of what is absolute and what is not. So, maybe in the future, new studies will reveal that the presence of wisdom teeth do have an impact on crowding and straightening!

A very frequent question indeed, and one which you will likely be relieved by the answer! This is a very common situation and is usually at its worst between the ages of ten and twelve, depending on the child. It is so common in fact, that it has been given a name by orthodontists. It is called the “ugly duckling” phase of dental development.

Most times, the gap will resolve on its own once the permanent canine teeth come completely in ( around age eleven). This gap is caused by the canine teeth pushing on the roots of the front teeth as they make their way down into the mouth. This pressure pushes the teeth in the front apart temporarily and will start to close as the canines come further into the mouth. It can be a little embarrassing for teens until it resolves. So, reassure them that many of their other friends are likely to go through it also, and that it usually goes away on its own.

Occasionally, however, the gap remains slightly. This will depend on the skeletal and dental relationship of your child. If the canines have come in, and have been in for awhile but the gap still remains, talk to your dentist or orthodontist. There are many options for treating this if your child is unhappy with the final appearance of their smile. Some of those options may include anything from a small, tooth-colored filling placed to widen the appearance/close the gap, to brace or other appliances. Each child and situation is unique.