Is Misaligned Midline Normal
A misaligned midline can cause you to feel self conscious of your smile but it is a normal issue among adult patients. When the midline is properly aligned, the center of the upper and lower teeth line up with each other, bisect the nose, and line up with the center of the space between the eyebrows.
Misalignment most often happens when the adult teeth come in crooked but other causes include missing teeth, over or under size teeth, jaw misalignment, or dental trauma. Aside from the aesthetics of the patient smile, a misaligned midline can lead to other issues down the road including malocclusion, bruxism, tooth fracture, and TMJ issues
Malocclusion and Bruxism
Malocclusion is the term for a bad bite, when the upper and lower teeth do not line up correctly, and can lead to shifting teeth, problems eating, and midline misalignment.
Bruxism is clenching and grinding the teeth, which many of us do unawares, in our sleep or even during the day. All of these issues can lead to shifting teeth, dental decay, and may even cause chips and fractures in the teeth.
While midline misalignment is sometimes a matter of appearance, it can pose much bigger problems in the future if it is not corrected. Fortunately, there are a few options for correcting a misaligned midline.
Treating a Misaligned Midline
Orthodontia
Orthodontic intervention is one of the most common treatments for a misaligned midline. Both traditional braces and clear aligners can be used to fix the midline and straighten any shifted teeth. Traditional braces use metal brackets and a metal arch wire to gently apply pressure to the teeth to shift them into alignment. Clear aligners use clear plastic trays that fit over the entire structure of the teeth and with each new tray, gently shift them into place.
Veneers
Another common option is to have porcelain veneers placed on the front teeth and can be used to fix a minor misalignment. Veneers are made of a thin porcelain that is permanently affixed to the front of the patient's teeth and can be used instead of orthodontic treatment when appropriate. Veneers have the added benefit of correcting any aesthetic issue that you would like to change about your smile. They can make your teeth appear larger and brighter!
Midline misalignment is normal and common but thankfully, is relatively easy to fix. Speak with your dentist about your treatment options as soon as you notice a change in your smile. They may provide clear aligner therapy in the office but if they do not or believe that you would be a candidate for braces, they will refer you to an orthodontist.
If you decide to fix a minor alignment issue with veneers, your dentist will likely be able to provide that treatment for you. As always, your dentist is the best place to start with any dental problem. They will be able to provide some guidance as to the best treatment path for your individual case.