Is Teeth Shifting Serious?
You may have recently noticed that your teeth have shifted over time. This may have left you wondering why your teeth are shifting, what can be done, and whether or not teeth shifting is a serious concern.
Below is information about shifting, possible treatments, and whether or not the condition is serious.
What Leads to Shifting Teeth?
There are a few things that commonly lead to teeth shifting. These include:
- Periodontal Disease: Periodontal disease (also known as “gum disease”) is a condition that affects the gums of a patient and can lead to both bone loss and teeth loosening. In turn, teeth can begin to shift.
- Tooth Loss: Whether it is due to an injury, extraction, or a tooth falling out, tooth loss can contribute to the shifting of healthy teeth.
- Teeth Grinding and Clenching: Grinding and clenching of the teeth (commonly occurring at night) can put pressure on the teeth and lead to them shifting out of place.
- Changes in the Jaw: With age, our jawbones change. This is a natural process. With that said, these changes can lead to shifting and crowding that may need to be addressed.
Is Teeth Shifting Serious?
Overall, teeth shifting isn’t too serious, but it can become serious over time in some circumstances. For instance, if teeth are shifting due to a tooth being missing, this problem needs to be addressed. More severe shifting can make it difficult to take care of your oral hygiene, which in turn can lead to gum disease, tooth infection, and even extraction.
Can Shifting Teeth Be Corrected?
More often than not, shifting can be corrected with the help of orthodontic treatment. This treatment may manifest in the form of braces or clear aligners (think Invisalign). Both have their advantages and disadvantages, so it is important to speak with your dentist about which option will be best to meet your needs and preferences.
Can I Prevent Shifting?
Sometimes teeth shifting can be prevented, while other times it cannot. For instance, shifting with age is something that occurs naturally. With that said, the process can be slowed and minimized.
When it comes to shifting that is a result of oral health, prevention is exceedingly simple. Make sure you brush twice a day, rinse, and floss. You also need to visit your dentist every six months for your cleaning and checkup. During your checkup, your dentist can take a look at your teeth and determine if they are shifting. If this is the case, they can let you know how serious it is and even recommend a solution.
Contact Us
If you have recently noticed your teeth are shifting or if your dentist has mentioned your shifting and you haven’t taken action yet, contact us today. We’ll take a look at your teeth and determine whether or not treatment for shifting is necessary. If it is, we’ll put together a treatment plan to help address your shifting teeth.