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5 Reasons Why Your Teeth May Be Shifting – And What To Do About It

5 Reasons Why Your Teeth May Be Shifting

Are you noticing that your teeth are not as straight and aligned as they used to be? Unfortunately, it’s quite common for adults to experience their teeth shifting. In fact, according to recent research, up to 70% of adult patients will experience some degree of tooth movement or misalignment over time. This article explores the top five reasons why your teeth may be shifting – and what you can do about it.

As we age, our teeth naturally shift due to various factors such as genetics, lifestyle habits, and general wear and tear from everyday activities. In some cases, just one tooth may move out of place, while in others, multiple teeth could become crooked or overlap. In either case, understanding why your teeth are shifting and how to address the issue properly is essential to preserving your smile.

Genetics

Genetics can play a significant role in determining the alignment of our teeth. Some genetic irregularities that lead to tooth shifting include an excessive overbite or underbite, a small mouth size or jawbone structure, and even missing or extra teeth. Many malocclusions (abnormal bites) are inherited from one or both parents. In cases where genetics may be the root cause of your misalignment, you may need orthodontic treatment such as braces or Invisalign to help get your teeth back into proper alignment.

Invisalign

Invisalign is one of the most popular orthodontic treatments available today and can help correct a wide range of misalignment problems. Invisalign works by gradually shifting your teeth into their desired position with the help of custom-made, clear aligners. In addition to being nearly invisible, Invisalign treatment is more comfortable than traditional braces as it does not involve metal brackets or wires.

Braces

Braces are another popular method for achieving straight teeth. Traditional braces have metal brackets attached to each tooth and a wire that runs through them. The tension in the wire helps you gradually move your teeth into the desired position. In addition to being less discreet than Invisalign, braces are more cost-effective.

Retainers

In cases where the misalignment is not severe, your dentist may suggest using a retainer to help keep your teeth in their new position. A retainer is a custom-made appliance that fits over your teeth and helps them stay in place after completing orthodontic treatment. In some cases, retainers can be used for minor corrections as well.

Lifestyle Habits

Certain lifestyle habits can lead to teeth shifting due to excessive wear and tear on certain parts of our mouths. For instance, grinding or clenching your teeth puts extra strain on your jaw and can cause teeth to shift out of place. In addition, consistent use of tobacco or alcohol can contribute to tooth shifting as well due to their acidic nature. In cases where lifestyle habits are the primary culprit, your dentist may recommend wearing a night guard while sleeping or using certain medications to help protect your teeth from further damage.

Night Guard

Wearing a night guard is one way to protect your teeth from clenching or grinding during sleep. A custom-made night guard fits over your upper and/or lower teeth and helps keep them in proper alignment by absorbing the force of any pressure put on them during the night. Sometimes, you may also need a night guard to protect other parts of your mouth, such as the inner cheek or tongue.

Medication

In cases where lifestyle habits are causing tooth shifting, your dentist may recommend taking certain medications to help reduce inflammation and protect your teeth from further damage. In addition, if you are a smoker or heavy drinker, quitting these habits can also positively impact your oral health and help slow down the rate at which your teeth are shifting.

Diet

Eating a balanced diet rich in essential vitamins and minerals is important for oral hygiene, not just for preventing tooth shifting. Eating foods that contain calcium and phosphorus can help strengthen your enamel and protect your teeth from shifting. In addition, avoiding acidic or sugary foods and drinks can also help reduce wear on your teeth and protect them from further movement.

Treatment Options

In cases where lifestyle habits are not the cause of tooth shifting, more invasive treatment options may be required to correct the alignment of your teeth. In some cases, surgery may even be necessary to achieve desired results. Traditional braces or Invisalign are typically recommended as they offer a more reliable way to get your teeth back into position.

Braces

Braces are one of the most common treatments for misalignment issues and can help align your teeth quickly and effectively. In addition to being less discreet than Invisalign, braces are more cost-effective.

Invisalign

Invisalign is a popular option for correcting misaligned teeth as it offers a clear and discreet way to do so. Invisalign consists of custom-made aligners that gradually move your teeth back into their desired position over time. In cases where Invisalign is used to correct minor misalignment issues, the process can take between six and twelve months.

Surgery

In cases where the tooth shifting is severe or requires complex corrections, surgery may be necessary to achieve desired results. In these situations, a procedure known as orthognathic surgery is typically recommended. This procedure involves the surgical repositioning of certain bones in your jaw and faces to help restore proper alignment and function.

Conclusion

Tooth shifting can be caused by various factors, including genetics, lifestyle habits, or even a lack of oral hygiene. In most cases, minor tooth shifting can be easily corrected using a custom-made night guard or Invisalign aligners. However, surgery may be necessary in more severe cases to achieve desired results. In any case, it’s important to consult with a dentist as soon as you begin to notice changes in your teeth so that they can provide you with an appropriate treatment plan.

FAQs

1. How do I know if my teeth are shifting?

If you notice that your teeth have become crooked, misaligned, or even shifted from their original position then this is a sign that they may be shifting. In addition to changes in the alignment of your teeth, other signs of tooth shifting include changes in bite pressure and difficulty eating certain foods.

2. Is Invisalign effective for treating tooth shifting?

Yes, Invisalign is an effective treatment option for correcting misaligned teeth as it offers a clear and discreet way to do so. In most cases, Invisalign can help correct minor misalignment issues within six to twelve months.

3. What are the risks of not treating tooth shifting?

If left untreated, tooth shifting can lead to various oral health issues, including difficulty speaking or eating. In extreme cases, it can even affect the structure of your jaw and face as certain bones may shift out of position. In addition, it may also increase your risk for periodontal disease as your gums may become more exposed due to shifted teeth.

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