Everyone knows that your body changes over time, but did you know that your teeth can change too? Although it might not seem obvious, they gradually shift throughout your life. Even if you’ve had orthodontic treatment or some other dental work, your pearly whites will continue to move ever so slightly. In most cases, people don’t realize until there’s a significant change in movement. Read along to learn what causes teeth shifting and how your dentist can help.
Why Do Teeth Move?
There are several reasons why teeth move, including:
Aging
Aging is one of the most common causes behind shifting teeth. Over the years, the jaw muscles, ligaments, and tissues become weak along with the rest of the body. Your pearly whites can turn loose and shift your bite. And since your lips get thinner as you age, they contract and create pressure on the outside of your bite, pushing teeth inward.
Teeth Grinding (Bruxism)
Do you grind your teeth at night? It’s much more common than you realize! Most people do it unconsciously, causing unexplained shifts in their bite. Along with teeth shifting, bruxism can also lead to enamel reduction and changes to the shape of teeth.
Gum Disease
Gingivitis or gum disease can destroy the gum tissue and jawbone, causing teeth to move. It’s crucial to catch periodontal disease as early as possible to prevent it from spreading and becoming life-threatening. Keep an eye out for symptoms like red, swollen, tender, inflamed, or bleeding gums.
Jaw Movement
As we get older, our jaw structure changes as well. The jawbones tend to move forward throughout a person’s life, contributing to tooth movement. When the teeth become misaligned, it alters the bite and eventually leads to the development of gaps in the upper teeth.
Tooth Loss
Did you lose a tooth from an injury, illness, or mere aging? A gap causes your remaining teeth to naturally shift over time to fill the space left by a missing tooth. This movement can also affect bite alignment.
How Your Dentist Can Correct Shifting Teeth
Are you unhappy with the way your teeth have moved? Don’t worry – your dentist can address your concerns with orthodontic treatment. Here are two ways you can achieve a straight smile once again:
- Invisalign – With Invisalign’s clear aligners, you can discreetly and comfortably straighten your pearly whites. They use gentle, constant pressure to shift your teeth into a more desirable position. After completing treatment, you’ll have a perfect smile you can proudly show off!
- Clear Correct – Don’t like the price tag on Invisalign? No problem! Clear Correct is an affordable yet effective solution that helps you achieve the same results. You can straighten your teeth without the hassle of metal wires and brackets.
It’s not too late to have a smile you can be proud of! If your teeth have already shifted, consult with your dentist to determine the underlying cause, and find a solution to prevent further movement.
About the Practice
At Newton Corner Dental Care, we offer exceptional, state-of-the-art, individually tailored dental care that is bound to exceed even your highest expectations. Our team uses the latest techniques, materials, and technologies to give you the smile of your dreams. Are your teeth shifting? Our dentist can correct any misalignment with orthodontic treatment. Visit our website or call (617) 332-6232 to schedule a consultation.
