Crowding

How it is used

Orthodontists describe it as mild, moderate or severe, often in millimeters. Treatment may involve expanding the arch, slimming the sides of teeth (interproximal reduction) or extracting premolars. Lower incisor crowding tends to increase with age.

Example sentences

1. There's moderate crowding in the lower arch, about five millimeters.

2. Crowding makes these teeth harder to clean, so plaque builds up.

Common collocations

• mild crowding
• severe crowding
• relieve crowding
• lower incisor crowding

Related terms

• malocclusionA problem with the way the teeth meet or line up, such as crowding, gaps, a deep overbite or an underbite. It is the main reason for orthodontic treatment.
• bracesA fixed orthodontic appliance made of small brackets glued to the teeth and joined by a wire, which slowly moves the teeth into better positions.
• premolarOne of the teeth between the canines and the molars, usually with two points (cusps) on the biting surface. Adults normally have eight, while children's first teeth include none.
• clear alignerOne of a series of thin, transparent plastic trays made to fit the teeth closely. Each tray moves the teeth slightly, and the patient changes to the next one every week or two.

More terms: Orthodontics

• occlusion
• retainer