Crooked teeth: causes, treatment options and how to fix them
Crooked teeth are incredibly common, affecting children, teens and adults alike. Whether it’s a single misaligned tooth or a full smile that feels uneven, it can affect confidence, cleaning, and long-term dental health.
The good news? Modern dentistry offers several ways to fix crooked teeth — many of them subtle, quick and comfortable.
At Lateral Dental in Sheffield, we see patients every week who want a straighter, more balanced smile. From Invisalign clear aligners to composite bonding, we provide solutions tailored to your needs, budget and lifestyle.
This guide explains what causes crooked teeth, why they matter, and the most effective ways to straighten them safely.
Why do teeth become crooked?
Crooked teeth can develop for a variety of reasons — some genetic, some environmental. Understanding the cause helps us plan the best treatment for you.
Here are the most common factors:
- Genetics – inherited jaw size, tooth shape or crowding patterns
- Thumb-sucking or dummy use in childhood – can affect tooth position
- Tooth loss – neighbouring teeth can drift into gaps
- Injury or trauma – can push teeth out of alignment
- Late eruption – when adult teeth grow in unevenly
- Lack of space – teeth may overlap or twist if the jaw is narrow
At Lateral Dental, we start with a detailed consultation to assess the position of your teeth, bite alignment and overall oral health. This helps us determine the best way to fix crooked teeth effectively and safely.
Are crooked teeth just a cosmetic issue?
Many people assume crooked teeth are just a visual concern — but they can impact oral health too. Misaligned teeth make brushing and flossing harder, which increases the risk of:
- Tooth decay
- Gum disease
- Plaque build-up
- Uneven wear
- Jaw strain or discomfort
Correcting alignment can therefore do more than improve your smile — it can help protect your long-term oral health.
How to fix crooked teeth: your options
At Lateral Dental Sheffield, we offer a range of modern treatments for crooked teeth. Each option has its benefits depending on your goals, timeframe and budget.
Here’s a quick comparison of the most effective methods:
| Treatment | How it helps | Best for | Typical duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Invisalign clear aligners | Gradually straighten teeth using clear, removable trays. | Mild to moderate crowding or spacing issues. | 6–18 months |
| Composite bonding | Reshapes and evens out minor misalignments or chips. | Slight crookedness or uneven edges. | 1 visit |
| Veneers | Covers the front surface of teeth for a uniform look. | Cosmetic straightening for visible teeth. | 2–3 visits |
| Orthodontic braces | Moves teeth with fixed brackets and wires. | Complex or severe misalignment. | 12–24 months |
Let’s explore these in more detail.
Invisalign: discreet straightening for adults and teens
For many patients, Invisalign clear aligners are the go-to choice for fixing crooked teeth discreetly.
At Lateral Dental, we use advanced digital scans to design a series of custom aligners that gradually move your teeth into position.
Each aligner is clear, comfortable and removable — meaning you can eat, brush and floss as usual.
Most Invisalign treatments take between 6 and 18 months, depending on the starting position of your teeth. You can learn more in our detailed Invisalign explained by a Sheffield dentist guide.
If you’ve ever wondered how to fix crooked teeth without metal braces, Invisalign is one of the most modern and comfortable solutions available.
You can also explore more about Invisalign treatment at the official Invisalign UK website.
Composite bonding: instant improvement
When crookedness is mild or limited to one or two teeth, composite bonding can be a simple, affordable alternative.
This technique involves shaping and adding tooth-coloured resin to improve symmetry, fill gaps or disguise uneven edges.
At Lateral Dental Sheffield, we match the resin perfectly to your enamel for a natural finish — often in a single appointment.
It’s quick, comfortable, and doesn’t involve drilling healthy tooth structure.
Veneers: cosmetic transformation
Veneers are thin porcelain or composite shells that cover the front surface of teeth. They’re often used to correct crooked, chipped or discoloured teeth when orthodontic movement isn’t necessary.
They can be a good choice if you want to fix crooked teeth for aesthetic reasons and achieve a bright, uniform smile quickly.
Our team at Lateral Dental will discuss whether veneers are suitable for your case or if Invisalign might be a better long-term option.
How long does it take to fix crooked teeth?
Treatment time depends on the method you choose and how complex your case is.
- Minor alignment with bonding: 1 visit
- Invisalign or braces: 6–24 months
- Veneers: Around 2–3 appointments
During your consultation at Lateral Dental Sheffield, we’ll create a personalised timeline so you know exactly what to expect.
Does fixing crooked teeth hurt?
Modern techniques make straightening and cosmetic treatments very comfortable. Invisalign aligners, for example, use gentle pressure to guide your teeth — no wires or sharp brackets.
Some mild tenderness may occur in the first few days of wearing new aligners or after adjustments, but it usually settles quickly.
The benefits of fixing crooked teeth
Straightening your teeth isn’t just about looks — it can genuinely improve your oral health and confidence.
Here’s what our patients often notice after treatment:
- Easier cleaning and flossing
- Reduced risk of decay and gum disease
- More comfortable bite
- Balanced facial appearance
- Renewed confidence when smiling or speaking
Whether through Invisalign or bonding, the impact can be life-changing.
Why patients choose Lateral Dental
We know choosing where to fix your teeth is a big decision. At Lateral Dental, our focus is on expert care, honesty and comfort.
- Our clinicians have extensive experience in cosmetic and orthodontic treatments, including Invisalign and composite bonding.
- We use digital scanners, detailed treatment planning, and evidence-based approaches to ensure precise results.
- Every plan is fully explained, including costs, timelines, and outcomes — no surprises, no pressure.
- Whether you’re interested in bonding, veneers or Invisalign, we tailor every treatment to your smile.
Final thoughts
Crooked teeth are nothing to be embarrassed about — and they’re easier to fix than ever. With options like Invisalign clear aligners, composite bonding, and veneers, you can achieve a straighter, healthier smile at your own pace.
At Lateral Dental Sheffield, we offer expert care, transparent advice, and modern solutions to help you feel confident again.
If you’re ready to explore how to fix crooked teeth, visit our Invisalign page, learn more from our Invisalign explained blog, or contact our friendly team to book a consultation today.
A straighter, more confident smile starts here — and we’d love to help you achieve it.
Questions our patients ask about crooked teeth
Crooked teeth can be caused by genetics, early habits like thumb-sucking, injury, or crowding. We assess your specific cause before recommending the best solution.
Options like Invisalign and composite bonding are excellent for discreetly fixing mild to moderate cases without traditional braces.
Yes. Many adults and teens benefit from Invisalign because it’s nearly invisible and fits easily into daily life.
Costs vary based on treatment type and complexity. Invisalign prices at Lateral Dental Sheffield are always discussed in a detailed, written plan before you start.
Wearing retainers after treatment and attending regular check-ups at Lateral Dental will help maintain your new smile.
