Teeth Flaring Forward?
Here’s Why—and How Ortho Can Help

Have you noticed that your front teeth are beginning to tilt forward or stick out more than they used to? This condition—often referred to as “flared teeth” or “proclined teeth”—is more common than many people realize. While some mild forward movement of teeth is normal, especially in childhood, excessive flaring can cause both cosmetic and functional concerns. Fortunately, orthodontic treatment offers a range of solutions depending on the cause and severity.

Let’s explore what causes teeth to flare out, why it matters, and how orthodontics can help restore both balance and confidence to your smile.

When we say teeth are “flared,” we’re usually referring to the upper front teeth (incisors) angling outward toward the lips rather than standing upright. Sometimes the lower front teeth can flare forward as well. This tilting can be mild or pronounced and may involve spacing between teeth or protrusion of the lips and gums.

While everyone’s tooth alignment is unique, excessive forward angling of the front teeth may be a sign of an underlying orthodontic issue, not just a cosmetic concern.

At Agape OrthodontThere are several reasons why teeth may become flared or protruded over time:

Some people simply have a genetic tendency toward flared teeth, especially if their upper jaw is larger than the lower jaw (an overjet or overbite). The position and size of the jaws can influence how the teeth erupt and how they fit together.

Prolonged habits like thumb sucking, finger sucking, or extended pacifier use can push the upper front teeth forward, particularly if the habit continues past age 4 or 5. The pressure of the thumb against the palate and teeth changes the shape of the developing jaw and alignment of the teeth.

In some cases, the tongue pushes forward against the teeth during swallowing or even at rest. This habit, known as tongue thrust, can cause the teeth to slowly move outward over time. It may also lead to spacing between the teeth or an open bite.

If braces or clear aligners were used in the past but retainers weren’t worn consistently, teeth may shift forward again. In some cases, past treatment may not have fully addressed the underlying bite, causing instability. Additionally, if too much space was created during orthodontic treatment, the front teeth can sometimes move outward unintentionally.

Teeth may flare out to compensate for crowding or a mismatch in jaw size. If the jaw is too small to accommodate all the teeth properly, some may protrude forward in search of space.

Why Flaring Teeth May Be a Concern

While flared teeth aren’t always a medical issue, they can affect oral health, facial balance, and self-confidence. Here are some of the potential problems associated with protruding teeth:

• Trauma Risk: Protruding front teeth are more vulnerable to injury, especially in children or active teens.
• Aesthetics: The lips may appear pushed out or “gummy,” and the smile may not look harmonious.
• Tooth Wear: Flaring can lead to improper contact between upper and lower teeth, increasing the risk of chipping or uneven wear.
• Speech Issues: Severe flaring, especially combined with tongue thrusting, can contribute to speech difficulties like lisping.
• Gum Health: Teeth that are flared forward may have less bone and gum tissue support, making them more prone to gum recession or mobility.

The good news is that flared teeth can almost always be improved through orthodontic care. The exact approach depends on the underlying cause, age of the patient, and severity of the problem. Here are some treatment options:

Braces are an effective option for repositioning flared teeth. Using brackets and wires, orthodontists can carefully guide the teeth back into alignment and adjust the bite to ensure stability. Sometimes elastics or other appliances are used to help correct the underlying jaw relationship at the same time.

For patients with mild to moderate flaring and good compliance, Invisalign or other clear aligner systems may be used to move the teeth gradually. Attachments (small tooth-colored bumps) are often added to help control the direction of tooth movement. Aligners can also correct crowding or spacing that may be contributing to flaring.

If the flaring is caused by tongue thrusting or a persistent oral habit, treatment may involve special appliances or referral for myofunctional therapy. These therapies help retrain oral muscles and eliminate the source of the pressure on the teeth.

For patients whose teeth have relapsed after earlier orthodontic work, a short course of retreatment—either with braces or aligners—can correct flaring. Long-term retainer wear is critical to maintaining results, especially if the patient is still growing.

During an orthodontic consultation, we’ll assess:

• The angle and position of your front teeth
• The alignment of your bite and jaw relationship
• Any habits contributing to tooth movement
• Gum and bone health

We use digital imaging, photographs, and models of your teeth to develop a personalized treatment plan. For growing children, we also consider how future growth may affect long-term stability.

Flaring front teeth are often more than just a cosmetic issue. Whether caused by growth patterns, habits, or previous orthodontic relapse, they can impact both appearance and function. Orthodontic treatment—braces, Invisalign, or other appliances—can correct flared teeth and help achieve a more balanced, confident smile.

If you or your child are noticing teeth pushing outward, an orthodontic evaluation is a smart step toward understanding your options. At Agape Orthodontics, we’re here to help you figure out what’s causing the shift—and how to fix it in a way that supports long-term health and happiness.