How to fix crooked teeth: causes, treatment options and cost

If your teeth don’t line up the way you’d like, you’re not alone. Crooked teeth are common, and the impact isn’t always just cosmetic. Alignment can affect how you chew, how you speak and how you feel about your smile. Whether it’s a single tooth or several, your smile should feel comfortable and function the way it’s meant to.

What causes crooked teeth?

Genetics often play a role in tooth alignment. Jaw shape, tooth size and spacing patterns are commonly inherited, which can lead to crowding or misalignment. If your parents had crooked teeth, you may notice similar patterns in your own smile.

Childhood habits can also influence alignment. Prolonged thumb sucking, tongue thrusting and mouth breathing may affect how the bite and jaw develop during key growth years.

Early loss of baby teeth can change how permanent teeth come in, sometimes creating spacing or crowding concerns later on.

Health problems related to crooked teeth

When teeth overlap or sit at uneven angles, it can be harder to clean between them. Plaque may build up in areas that are difficult to reach, increasing the risk of cavities and gum disease.

Misalignment can also affect your bite. When teeth don’t come together properly, jaw muscles may work harder to compensate. Over time, that strain can contribute to jaw pain, headaches or temporomandibular joint (TMJ) concerns, including clicking or discomfort.

Uneven tooth wear is another possibility. If certain teeth absorb more pressure during chewing, they can wear down faster, which may lead to sensitivity or small fractures over time.

Even if your smile looks fine on the surface, it’s helpful to have your dentist evaluate how everything is functioning beneath it.

How to fix crooked teeth: treatment options

There are a lot of ways to straighten crooked teeth. Depending on your needs and goals, your Aspen Dental care team can help you choose the right one.

Clear aligners

Clear aligner treatment, including Motto® clear aligners from Aspen Dental, uses a series of custom-made, removable trays to gradually shift teeth into alignment. Each set of aligners is typically worn for about two weeks before moving to the next set. Clear aligners are often recommended for mild to moderate crowding and offer the convenience of being removable for meals and daily brushing and flossing.

Treatment usually begins with digital scans or impressions of your teeth. From there, your provider maps out a step-by-step plan so you can see the projected results before starting. Most clear aligner treatment plans take 12–18 months, though simpler cases may be completed sooner. Some Motto® clear aligner treatment plans are completed in as little as 6 months.¹

¹Average Motto patient treatment plan lasts 5.4 months. Results may vary. Data on file.

Veneers for crooked teeth

For minor alignment concerns that mainly affect the front teeth, veneers can create the appearance of straighter teeth without orthodontic treatment. Porcelain veneers are thin shells bonded to the front surface of teeth to improve shape, symmetry and overall appearance.

Veneers are generally best suited for patients with a healthy, functional bite whose main concern is cosmetic. They can help close small gaps, improve the look of slightly rotated teeth and create a more uniform smile line. If crowding or bite issues are more significant, orthodontic treatment such as clear aligners may provide better long-term results for both function and appearance.

Dental bonding

Dental bonding uses tooth-colored composite resin to improve the shape and appearance of a tooth. The material is applied directly to the tooth surface and carefully sculpted to enhance symmetry and smooth minor imperfections.

Bonding can be a good option for small alignment concerns, chips or narrow gaps. However, it is not designed to correct significant crowding or more complex bite issues.

Cost and financing for straightening teeth

The cost of treatment for crooked teeth depends on the complexity of your case and the option you choose.

At Aspen Dental, financing through third-party lenders is available—where 99% of patient applications are approved after applying—helping many patients break treatment into manageable monthly payments. Flexible payment plans can often be structured around your budget, so care doesn’t have to be delayed. For patients without insurance, the Aspen Dental Savings Plan provides discounted services for a low annual fee.

Many dental insurance plans include orthodontic benefits, though coverage varies. Your Aspen Dental care team can review your specific plan and explain any out-of-pocket costs before treatment begins.

Why fixing crooked teeth sooner matters

Crooked teeth usually don’t straighten on their own. Over time, alignment concerns can gradually become more noticeable, especially if you’ve had extractions or experienced bone loss related to gum disease. Addressing issues earlier can help prevent added complications and may shorten overall treatment time.

Correcting misalignment also supports long-term oral health. Straighter teeth are typically easier to clean, which can help lower the risk of cavities and gum disease. A balanced bite can also reduce uneven tooth wear and limit strain on the jaw joints.

FAQs

Can crooked teeth be fixed at any age?

Yes. If your gums and supporting bone structure are healthy, teeth can be moved at virtually any age. Adult orthodontics has become increasingly common, with many patients seeking treatment in their 30s, 40s, 50s, and beyond.

How long does it take to fix crooked teeth?

Treatment length depends on the severity of misalignment and the option you choose. Mild cases may be completed in about 6–12 months with clear aligners, while more complex orthodontic treatment can take 18–24 months. Cosmetic options such as veneers usually involve two or three visits scheduled over several weeks.

Will fixing crooked teeth hurt?

Modern orthodontic treatment is designed with comfort in mind. It’s common to feel mild pressure or soreness for a few days after switching to a new set of aligners, but most patients find it manageable and adjust quickly as their teeth begin to shift.

Do I need to see a specialist for crooked teeth?

Insurance coverage varies by plan. Many policies include orthodontic benefits and cover a percentage of treatment costs. Some plans limit coverage to patients under 18, while others also include adult treatment. The Aspen Dental care team can review your specific benefits and explain what your plan covers before treatment begins.

What happens if I don’t fix my crooked teeth?

Not everyone with crooked teeth experiences complications, but misalignment can increase the risk of cavities, gum disease, uneven tooth wear and jaw discomfort. It can also make certain areas harder to clean effectively. The level of risk depends on how crowded the teeth are and how the bite fits together. A dental exam can help you understand how your alignment may be affecting your oral health and what steps, if any, are recommended.

Schedule an appointment at your nearest Aspen Dental location today.