The human body is always going through changes, and the mouth is no different. Much to the chagrin of many former orthodontics patients, a person’s teeth can shift out of position as time goes by. This can happen for reasons like illness, injury, and the natural aging process. While it’s normal for teeth to move around a bit over time, there are things you can do to control and mitigate this. Here’s why your teeth might be moving around and how you can help your teeth stay in alignment.
Why Do Teeth Shift as Time Goes On?
While you might want to think that your teeth will stay in place forever, they can shift in position as the upper and lower jawbones change shape over time. Frequent pressure due to chewing can also change how the teeth sit in their sockets. Teeth shifting can sometimes lead to more severe alignment issues and may require dental intervention. A few reasons why teeth might shift include:
- Changes in bone structure due to the aging process.
- Changes in the jawbone due to tooth loss.
- Orthodontic treatments like traditional braces.
- Adjustments made after orthodontic treatment is over.
- Injury or trauma to the face or mouth.
- Teeth grinding, which is also called bruxism.
- Dental infections like tooth decay and gum disease.
How Can I Prevent My Teeth from Shifting?
While it’s normal for teeth to shift over time, you can take measures to help keep your smile in shape. Proper oral hygiene can keep your teeth and gums healthy and strong, preventing them from atrophying and receding. An excellent daily oral hygiene routine includes brushing twice, flossing once, and using antibacterial mouthwash, and avoiding sugary foods and beverages can deprive harmful bacteria of the food they need to cause nasty oral infections. It’s also important to see your dentist twice a year for routine exams and cleanings to preserve your dental health.
Kicking a smoking habit is another wonderful way to improve the health of your gums. When you inhale tobacco smoke, your gums harden to protect themselves from the harmful chemicals it contains. Frequent exposure to this smoke can cause your gums to become exhausted from hardening so much, leading them to atrophy. This can pull teeth out of alignment and cause them to shift more quickly.
Can Shifted Teeth Be Corrected?
Luckily, modern orthodontics have allowed millions of patients to enjoy straighter, healthier, and more beautiful smiles. Traditional braces can treat even complex cases, allowing people with severe gaps or crowding to enjoy having teeth that are easier to clean and less likely to be injured. Consulting with your dentist can determine if you or your child is a suitable candidate for orthodontic treatment.
About the Author
Dr. Maria Murad earned her dental degree at the University of Detroit Mercy and pursued her specialty training in pediatric dentistry at the prestigious University of Texas Health Science Center. She is a Certified Specialist in Pediatric Dentistry from the Royal College of Dentists in Canada and the Ontario Dental Association. Her office in Pickering, ON offers children’s general, restorative, and emergency dentistry as well as orthodontics. For more information on how teeth can shift over time, contact the office online or dial (289) 302-6065.