Options for Treating Shifting Teeth
The most common reason for shifting teeth is improper maintenance following orthodontic treatment, though there are other reasons that the teeth can shift. These can include aging, periodontal disease, and grinding of the teeth. As the teeth shift, they can cause problems with oral hygiene and with the way the upper and lower arches of teeth meet while biting; over time, these problems can escalate and cause a waterfall of related issues. While shifting teeth are normal, they’re not healthy, and they’re not ideal. Shifting teeth affect the alignment and appearance of the smile over time, and they also have adverse effects on the oral health. Thankfully, there are several options available for preventing, and also treating, shifting teeth.
The best way to address shifting teeth after orthodontic treatment is to prevent them from shifting in the first place. Understanding that the gum and bone tissues are particularly vulnerable after the teeth have been modified with braces or invisible aligners, make sure to follow your orthodontist’s instructions for aftercare, especially when it comes to wearing a retainer. It can take some time for the teeth to anchor into place after orthodontic treatment, and retainers help hold the teeth where they belong while the oral tissues settle and strengthen. Your orthodontist might provide a removable retainer or a permanent one, depending on your needs and your ability to adhere to proper aftercare. Following an effective oral hygiene routine can also help keep the teeth from shifting; brushing twice daily and flossing daily helps maintain the strength and stability of the oral tissues that hold the teeth securely in place where they belong. These practices help keep the teeth firmly in place in the mouth, which is crucial to maintaining the positions of the teeth and preventing them from shifting.
It might be a bit of a challenge to notice small shifts in the position of the teeth, as most of us see our own faces daily and are less likely to notice small changes. Paying attention to small changes can help manage shifting teeth before they become significantly misaligned, and regular visits to the dentist can also help prevent more problematic tooth movement. If you notice any misalignment or other changes in your teeth, see your dentist right away, as the problem is only going to get worse when it’s left unaddressed. There are many options for treatment of shifting teeth, but the issue is always easier to treat when it’s nipped in the bud early on, and your dentist can help you keep your teeth from continuing to shift while addressing any overarching oral health concerns at the same time. If your teeth are shifting due to gum disease, early dental intervention can stop them in their tracks while preventing future issues, and if your teeth shift because of a missing tooth, dental implants and other restorations can help prevent this tooth movement. The point is, each solution will depend on the patient’s personal circumstances, and only a dental specialist can accurately recommend appropriate options for treating shifting teeth, so see your dentist regularly, and, if you notice movement in your teeth, see your dentist right away, before the problem gets worse.