7 Proven Ways to Fix Crowded Teeth (That Actually Work)

Crowded teeth can be fixed with braces, clear aligners, or extractions; the sooner, the better. There are solutions if you are an adult dealing with lower teeth crowding or a parent noticing your child’s teeth shifting. Some are quick. Some take time. But the problem is treatable.

Crowded teeth make it harder to clean them, increase the risk of cavities, and can even cause jaw pain over time. This is common and treatable if you have noticed your bottom teeth overlapping or your smile shifting.

What Is Teeth Crowding?

Crowding happens when your teeth don’t have enough room to sit in the right position. Some teeth twist, some overlap, and some get pushed backward or forward.

There are two main types:

• Mild to moderate crowding: Teeth are slightly misaligned but still functional.
• Severe crowding: Teeth overlap a lot or sit on top of each other. This often leads to other problems like gum disease or jaw tension.

Most people notice it on their lower front teeth, especially as they age.

What Causes Crowded Teeth?

A study of over 1,000 patients found that almost 84% had some form of dental crowding. There isn’t just one cause. 

Your Family Tree Plays a Role

If mom or dad had crooked teeth, there’s a good chance you might, too. The shape and size of your jaw and even how your teeth are positioned can be passed down through genetics.

When Your Jaw’s Too Cozy

A jaw that’s too small doesn’t leave enough elbow room for all your teeth. As a result, they can shift, overlap, or twist to find space where there isn’t any.

Baby Teeth Gone Too Soon… or Sticking Around Too Long

Losing baby teeth at the wrong time, either too early or too late, can disrupt the timing and alignment of permanent teeth, leading to crowding.

Thumb-Sucking & Tongue Thrusting

These habits might seem harmless to young children, but over time, they can nudge teeth into unnatural positions and contribute to misalignment.

Teeth Crowding With Age

Yes, teeth crowd as you get older. 

• Your jaw changes shape.
• Bone density shifts.
• The pressure from biting and chewing moves teeth slowly inward.

That’s why you may notice crowding even if your teeth were straight in your 20s.

Retainers can help prevent this. If you had braces before and stopped wearing your retainer, this is likely why your teeth are moving again.

Severe Teeth Crowding

When crowding is severe, it affects more than looks. It can:

• Make teeth more complicated to clean
• Lead to gum disease
• Causes headaches or jaw pain
• Change the way you bite or chew

Treatment usually requires a mix of braces, extractions, and long-term retainers. 

How to Fix Overcrowded Teeth in Adults

Adults have more options than ever to treat crowded teeth. 

1. Braces

Braces are still the most trusted way to straighten teeth. They gently move your teeth into the right place using steady pressure over time. Braces today aren’t as bulky or obvious as they used to be. Some are clear or match your tooth color, so they are much harder to notice.

• Time: Usually takes 1 to 2 years
• Works best for: Moderate to severe crowding
• Result: Teeth that once overlapped or twisted will be straight and evenly spaced

Braces can handle even the most challenging cases. If your crowding is more than a slight shift, this might be the best route. Just be sure to take care of your braces so you get the best results.

2. Clear Aligners (like Invisalign)

Clear aligners are smooth, plastic trays made just for your teeth. You wear one set for a couple of weeks, then switch to the next; each new tray gently shifts your teeth a little more. They are almost invisible and can be taken out when eating, brushing, or flossing, making them a flexible option.

• Time: About 6 to 18 months
• Works best for: Mild to moderate crowding
• Bonus: No wires or brackets, just smooth, clear trays

Aligners are a good fit if your crowding isn’t too extreme and you want something less visible than braces.

And if you are already considering aligners, don’t miss this helpful guide on Invisalign costs in Arizona.

3. Tooth Removal (Extractions)

Sometimes, there’s not enough space in your mouth to move your teeth around. That’s when an orthodontist might recommend removing one or two teeth to create room.

• Used when: There’s not enough space to align your teeth properly
• Usually paired with: Braces or aligners to guide the remaining teeth into place

This sounds intense, but it’s a common and safe solution for severe crowding. It allows the rest of your teeth to move into a healthy, balanced position.

4. Veneers (For Looks Only)

Veneers are thin shells placed on the front of your teeth. They can hide crowding, but they don’t fix it. Think of them like makeup for your smile.

• Best for: Minor crowding that only affects appearance
• Note: Doesn’t move teeth, covers them up

If your crowding doesn’t bother you functionally but you want a smoother look, veneers might be an option. However, they won’t improve your bite or tooth health.

Lower Teeth Crowding Treatment

Lower front teeth tend to crowd first as you age.

Why?

Your lower jaw isn’t fixed for life; it slowly shifts as you age, especially after 30. That natural change can affect how your teeth line up, even if they used to be perfectly straight. This causes your bottom teeth to shift inward and overlap.

• Treatment: Braces or clear aligners
• Retention: Always wear a retainer after treatment, or the crowding will come back

Can You Fix Teeth Crowding Naturally?

In short: No.

There are online claims about “natural” ways to fix teeth at home using rubber bands or DIY devices. These can be dangerous. They may move your teeth incorrectly or damage your gums and bone.

There are no proven natural methods for safely moving adult teeth into the correct position. Orthodontic treatment is the only safe, effective path.

At what age is it best to fix an overcrowded Tooth?

For kids, the ideal age to start treatment is around 11–13 years, right after most adult teeth have come in.

But it’s never too late. Adults in their 30s, 40s, and even 60s can get braces or aligners.

What matters more than age is the condition of your teeth and gums. If they are healthy, you can get started.

Final Thoughts

Whether you are 13 or 53, crowded teeth can be corrected. A well-aligned smile is easier to keep clean, puts less stress on your jaw, and supports better overall dental health. 

Noticing changes in your bite or the way your teeth fit together? 

Treatment works. And today’s options are more comfortable than ever.

If you are ready to fix crowded teeth, contact experienced orthodontists. Visit Palm Valley Orthodontics to find the right treatment for you, whether braces or invisalign or clear retainers. 

FAQs

Can you fix overcrowded teeth?

Yes. Braces, aligners, and sometimes extractions create space and move the teeth into the right place.

How to naturally fix crowded teeth?

There is no safe or proven natural method. You need professional orthodontic care to move teeth safely.

At what age is it best to fix overcrowding?

Early teens are ideal, but adults of any age can fix crowded teeth if their mouth is healthy.

What is the root cause of crowded teeth?

It’s often genetic. But jaw size, habits, and aging also play a role.