Crowding is the lack of space for all the teeth to fit normally within the jaws. The teeth may be twisted or displaced. Crowding occurs when there is disharmony in the tooth-to-jaw size relationship, or when the teeth are larger than the available space. Crowding can be caused by early or late loss of primary teeth, or improper eruption of teeth.

Crowding should be corrected because it can:

• Prevent proper cleaning of all the surfaces of your teeth
• Cause dental decay
• Increase the chances of gum disease
• Prevent proper functioning of teeth
• Make your smile less attractive