Attaining a stunning smile encompasses various elements, including the presence of white and evenly spaced teeth. The alignment of your teeth is pivotal in this process. However, maintaining straight teeth can pose challenges when shifts occur. Delve into this guide to uncover seven prevalent causes of teeth shifting. Learn how your dentist can adeptly address and correct these issues, ensuring your smile retains its radiance and alignment.
#1: Bruxism
Bruxism, characterized by the involuntary clenching of the jaw and teeth grinding, often occurs during sleep. This habitual behavior, if left unchecked, can lead to diverse oral health problems, including complications with the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and teeth shifting over time.
#2: Aging
With aging, the thinning and reduction of facial anatomy become more noticeable. Simultaneously, lips contract, becoming tighter and smaller. This can apply pressure on the teeth, gradually causing them to shift from their original positions over time.
#3: Changes in Bone Density
As we age, another change occurs in the jawbone due to shifts in bone density, causing it to move forward. This alteration can weaken the bond between the jaw and teeth, leading to gradual teeth shifting over time.
#4: Tooth Loss
Facing facial trauma or tooth loss from an injury may result in nearby teeth shifting as they naturally reposition to occupy the space left by the lost tooth.
#5: Involuntary Tongue Thrusting
Unintentionally pressing the tongue against the front teeth can potentially result in the gradual development of gaps between the upper and lower rows for some individuals.
#6: Dental and Orthodontic Procedures
Teeth shifting isn’t always a negative development. In orthodontic treatments, teeth may naturally reposition to achieve a more optimal alignment, addressing concerns such as closing gaps and correcting bite issues.
#7: Gum Disease
Inadequate oral hygiene, specific medications, genetic factors, and other elements can contribute to gum disease, an oral health condition. In the advanced stages of gum disease, teeth shifting may ensue.
3 Ways to Prevent Teeth Shifting
Avoiding teeth shifting is achievable through proactive measures, such as:
- Replacement Teeth: To prevent the risk of shifting among remaining teeth, fill in gaps left by missing teeth.
- Wear a Mouthguard: Whether participating in contact sports or dealing with nighttime teeth grinding, the utilization of a mouthguard is crucial for safeguarding your teeth, jaw, and other oral structures.
- Practice Good Oral Hygiene: Maintaining regular oral hygiene practices, including brushing your teeth twice daily and nightly flossing, is pivotal in preventing the emergence of oral health problems that could lead to teeth shifting.
3 Ways to Correct Teeth Shifting
If you’ve observed changes in the alignment of your teeth, seek guidance from your dentist to explore appropriate treatment options, which may involve:
- Orthodontics: Orthodontic choices, such as aligners and braces, adeptly guide teeth undergoing shifting into a more favorable position.
- Dental Crowns: Resembling teeth in shape, these caps can improve the aesthetic appeal of your teeth, creating the illusion of a straighter appearance.
- Porcelain Veneers: Delicate porcelain shells attached to the front of your teeth can achieve a more uniform appearance, addressing the visual concerns associated with shifting teeth.
- Lumineers: Lumineers offer a non-invasive solution to correct shifting teeth by providing a seamless and aesthetically pleasing appearance.
About the Practice
Discover the pathway to a brighter and more beautiful smile at Michelsen Dental, where a team led by Dr. Renu Michelsen, Dr. Kiet Minh Tran, and Dr. Surat Attaphitaya provides a comprehensive array of treatments encompassing restorative, preventive, and cosmetic procedures. With the goal of enhancing both oral health and aesthetics, explore the possibilities by visiting their website or initiating the journey by calling their office at (714) 538-1178.
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