Why are my Teeth Shifting?
In fact your teeth are always moving. Despite our understanding that the firm and rigid teeth are structures, they are actually living material. The blood and tissues in our gums are malleable, and thus so are the supporting structures of our teeth. However, when the spacing and angle of our teeth change, we tend to notice, and it could be a sign of more serious or harmful activity beneath the gumline.
Why do Teeth Shift?
Jaw Changes- As we continue to grow throughout our life our body continues to change. One of the things that can change over time is the shape of our jaw. With this change, our teeth may subtly shift over time to accommodate the growth or shrinking of the jawline in which they are set.
Pressure and Trauma- Obviously a large blunt force to the face could shift or alter the placement of your teeth. But also a consistent and directed force, like orthodontic work, could strategically manipulate the shape or placement of the teeth.
Movement After Orthodontics- Despite the effort and time invested in braces, invisalign, or other placement work–sometimes your teeth move back to their original placement. Sometimes another option needs to be investigated, and sometimes the body is going to do what it thinks is best.
Disease- Gum infection, gum disease, bruxism or tooth grinding, and tooth resorption can all lead to a shifting of the teeth. In order to diagnose and treat these conditions, it is paramount that you are seen by a dental care professional.
Tooth Extraction- After removal of a tooth, some patients experience tooth shifting. The delicate ergonomics of your jaw are disrupted by the removal of other teeth, and this gap leaves room for other teeth to push themselves out of place, or alignment. This is most pronounced if someone loses an incisor or a tooth near the front of the mouth. Dental implants can help prevent shifting.
Sleep Apnea- It is not clear if the Apnea itself has a direct correlation to tooth movement, but use of a CPAP machine does. A cpap machine exerts a positive pressure on the airway to allow openness during sleep. This pressure does have a causational relationship with tooth movement.
How can you reduce the chances of Tooth Movement?
1. Take good care of your teeth- Use all the tools available to you for dental hygiene. Use a toothbrush twice a day, especially after meals. Use floss regularly, and follow the contours of your teeth. Use mouthwash, and attend all regularly scheduled cleanings.
2. Wear a retainer- Especially post orthodontic work, follow all hygiene recommendations as posited by your dental care team. This includes your regularly scheduled cleanings, daily hygiene, and wearing of a retainer.
3. Treat Bruxism- Wear a nightly mouthguard and discuss other options with your dentist to avoid grinding of the teeth.
4. Treat Disease- See your dentist to diagnose, treat, and eliminate gum and dental disease from your dental health ecosystem. Use proper hygiene and eat conscious foods to avoid the proliferation of infection and disease.
Reach out today to learn more about teeth shifting treatment and smile design.