Symptoms of Shifting Teeth
Shifting teeth in adults is completely normal and does not necessarily mean that intervention needs to happen. As we age, the lower jawbone tends to narrow and push forward, leading to crowded and overlapping teeth. While minor shifting is normal, other factors can affect the degree of movement such as gum health and other health conditions.
Periodontal disease develops when plaque is not regularly flossed and brushed away but is allowed to accumulate on the teeth along the gum line. Unchecked plaque calcifies into tartar which can only be removed by your dental hygienist. This can lead to tooth mobility and even tooth loss. Tartar then causes gum recession and eventually bone deterioration, leading to mobility and shifting in the teeth.
Symptoms of Shifting Teeth
Shifting teeth often happens slowly so you may not notice anything until it is very apparent. Some signs that your teeth have shifted include gaps in the teeth, crowding where there was none previously, tooth pain and sensitivity, an ill-fitting dental appliance, or an off-center midline. The midline is where the space between your two front teeth on the top and bottom align with your nose and the space between your eyes.
Since shifting teeth is a gradual process, it does not typically cause sudden pain but you may begin to notice that your teeth are more sensitive than they used to be or that you suddenly have a weird bite. Malocclusion (a bad bite) can lead to other issues including chronic headaches and fractured teeth.
Prevent Shifting Teeth
There are a number of ways that you can prevent teeth shifting including good oral hygiene with regular brushing and flossing to prevent gum disease, regular dental check ups and professional cleanings, and wearing oral appliances as directed. If you have a night guard or retainer, they will help keep teeth in alignment.
Shifting Teeth After Orthodontia
During orthodontic treatment, the teeth are gradually forced into alignment. As pressure is applied, the gum tissue and jaw bone soften, allowing the teeth to move. Once treatment is complete, a retainer works to hold the teeth in their new position while the bone and gums regenerate and become strong again so they can hold the teeth in their new place. So, you will likely be advised to wear your retainer constantly for a few months and eventually only to bed.
Our teeth want to be in their original position so it is crucial to wear your retainer as directed to prevent your teeth from shifting back out of alignment.
Having straight teeth is not only an aesthetic benefit, straight teeth are generally healthier because they are easier to clean and treat. Anyone can have a retainer, they are not reserved for patients that have had orthodontic treatment. If you are concerned with shifting teeth, speak with your dentist to see if you might benefit from either a permanent or removable retainer.