The thought of your teeth shifting may seem alarming, but on some level, it is natural. While adult teeth are permanent, it is not unusual for them to shift over time. However, teeth shifting can have major consequences depending on the cause of the shifting. Read on to learn more about why your teeth are shifting, how to prevent teeth shifting, and more tips from our general dentistry.
Why Are My Teeth Shifting?
Though it may take a while for you to notice teeth shifting happening, it is not uncommon in adults. While an emergency situation like a blow to the face can cause teeth to move, one of the main reasons for teeth shifting is mesial drift. This process refers to the phenomenon of your teeth moving to the front of the mouth as you age.
Additionally, teeth shifting can occur as a result of acid erosion, your bite, or an injury. Acid erosion can lead to loss of enamel, which changes the shape of your tooth. Our tooth shape may then realign themselves as your bite starts to shift as well.
Even though age can cause teeth shifting, there may be other forces at work. Periodontal disease can also trigger teeth shifting. Periodontal disease results in the decaying of the gums and bone behind the teeth. As these factors are essential in supporting the teeth, decay can easily lead to teeth shifting.
Treatment for Shifting Teeth
While a minimal amount of shifting may not require treatment, your dentist may suggest it if your situation is severe. Dentists also recommend regular cleaning and proper dental hygiene to treat teeth shifting as this will reduce your risk of tooth loss and periodontal disease.
Other options for teeth shifting include treatment for teeth grinding. As teeth grinding can worsen your shifting concerns, it is important to visit a dentist as soon as possible for treatment. Dentists generally recommend that their clients wear night guards as a solution for teeth grinding. Similarly, retainers are another option to consider as they are an important way to keep your teeth from shifting and maintaining your current smile.
In the event that your teeth keep shifting, your dentist will likely recommend orthodontic treatment. Braces are an effective adult solution for teeth shifting. Wearing dental braces is a long-term treatment that realigns your teeth and addresses spacing or crowding issues that would otherwise worsen your shifting condition.
How to Prevent Teeth from Shifting
Though teeth shifting may happen naturally with age, there are ways to prevent further teeth shifting. Start by scheduling regular teeth cleanings with the dentist. While it’s important to clean your teeth properly on your own, professional cleanings can dislodge decay and bacteria that you cannot access yourself.
Another effective way to prevent teeth shifting is by improving your sleep habits. If you frequently sleep on your stomach, this can result in tooth movement. Take action to maintain your smile by sleeping on your side or your back.
The way you sleep can affect your smile. It is also important to monitor your posture when working. For example, working at a desk can result in poor posture that causes your teeth to move. Additionally, habitually resting your chin in your hands can put pressure on your teeth, causing them to move as well. Experts recommend adjusting your desk to the perfect height, getting an ergonomic chair, and moving your computer screen closer to improve your posture and prevent teeth shifting.
Best Practices for Oral Health
As one of the best ways to prevent teeth shifting is to improve your oral hygiene, it is important to find a dentist in Texas that you trust and visit regularly. Lovett Dental Corpus Christi offers the highest quality of care to treat concerns like teeth shifting.
At Lovett Dental Corpus Christi, you will also have access to services such as:
While some level of teeth shifting is normal, it is best to consult a dentist to monitor the situation. The professionals at Lovett Dental Corpus Christi offer a variety of dental services to promote positive dental health. Contact us at 361-986-1117 to set up an appointment today.