Have you experienced gaps in your teeth or crowding affecting your smile? If so, then you may be dealing with shifting teeth. Ideally, the gums and jawbone supporting your teeth will hold fast over the years, but the unfortunate reality is that teeth moving isn’t all that rare. Many different factors can lead to tooth movement. However, there are effective options to prevent and treat the issue.
Factors Behind Shifting Teeth
Shifting teeth are to be expected in children and young adults, as the teeth and jaw are still developing. However, some reasons can lead to tooth movement even after everything has settled.
The emergence of wisdom teeth between the ages of 17 and 21 is one of the primary causes of tooth shifting, with more than 5 million people in the U.S. having wisdom tooth removal each year.[1] They emerge at the back of the mouth where there is rarely enough room.
However, if you don’t have these teeth removed promptly, they can continue to push against other teeth, causing them to shift over time. You can end up with further complications down the line if you avoid wisdom tooth removal when it is needed.
If you have a missing tooth due to decay, disease, or an accident, you’re also at risk of having other teeth move. Adjacent teeth can move into the gap over time if not filled with a dental bridge or implant.
Teeth grinding can also lead to shifting teeth. If you experience bruxism, which is the grinding of your teeth, most commonly during sleep, you’re putting constant pressure on them and your jaw. Over time, this can lead to serious movement.
Advanced gum disease (periodontitis) can also cause teeth shifting. This disease has many other negative effects on your dental and overall health.
Some shifting is to be expected throughout your life. Even once development is complete, the jaw will continue to change slightly throughout your life. There may be no underlying severe factors, but you can still take action to improve your smile.
What You Can Do to Protect Your Smile
One of the most important things you can do to protect your smile is keep up with regular dentist visits. Your dentist can identify movement and help develop a proactive plan to prevent further shifting. They can ensure that you get the care you need for issues such as wisdom teeth emerging, bruxism, and other concerns.
For those with missing teeth, having a dental bridge or dental implant placed can prevent long-term movement. Either of these options can fill the gap, stopping other teeth from moving into that place. Patients with bruxism can benefit from mouthguards, which help alleviate the pressure caused by grinding and protect your teeth from long-term tooth loss. In the case of periodontal disease, proper treatment of the disease will need to be done.
Treatment Options to Fix Shifting Teeth
Prevention is the best approach, but what if you already have shifted teeth? Fortunately, there are a few options available. Depending on how severe the movement is, you may need orthodontic treatment.
The good news is that you may not even need to treat minor movements at all. If there aren’t any oral health concerns, your teeth can be left alone. However, if the shifting affects the front teeth, you may want to restore the look of your smile. Veneers are one effective way to do so. They can help minimize or eliminate gaps to balance your smile.
Find the Right Solution for Your Smile
Whether your shifting teeth are the result of emerging wisdom teeth or the simple passing of time, there are solutions for stopping and correcting this movement.
If you’re concerned about your oral health and the appearance of your smile, turn to the experienced team at Albion Family Dental in Albion, NY, to find the answers you need. We can evaluate any tooth movement and identify underlying issues, developing a plan for the best long-term outcome. Schedule your next appointment today to safeguard your smile. Call us at 585-589-9044.
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