It can be alarming to look into the bathroom mirror and notice that your teeth have shifted out of position. But it’s usually not obvious why this happens, and you might be wondering what could’ve possibly caused your pearly whites to move so drastically! Here’s more from your trusted orthodontist about some of the possible causes of shifting teeth, along with how professional intervention can address the issue.
5 Possible Causes of Shifting Teeth
Here are five of the most commonly identified causes of shifting teeth:
Bruxism
Also known as teeth grinding, this condition is characterized by the grinding and clenching of teeth, usually without a patient’s realization as it often happens during nighttime. This can lead to dental misalignment as well as other issues including worn enamel, changes to the shape of your teeth, and issues that affect the temporomandibular joints.
Tongue Thrust
This condition, also known as reverse swallow, occurs when you unconsciously push your tongue forward while speaking, swallowing, or sleeping. This pressure can gradually create a gap between the upper and lower teeth.
Aging
As your body ages, the ligaments, tissues and fibers composing your jaw muscles can gradually weaken, causing your teeth to loosen and shift out of place. Your lips can also contract as you age, which creates pressure on the exterior of your bite and gradually pushes your teeth inward. Additionally, the mineral content in bones decreases over time, which reduces jawbone density and causes dental drift.
Gum Disease
Gum disease poses a very serious threat to both your oral and overall health, and it can certainly cause your teeth to shift. Untreated gum disease can progress into periodontitis, an advanced form of the illness which can completely obliterate gum tissue and bone matter if left to progress.
Dental Trauma
It’s very possible that sustaining a blow to the face or mouth can lead to dental issues, including shifting teeth. Sometimes these injuries can partially extrude a tooth, which means the tooth is still attached but has been moved out of place. Other times, teeth can become entirely displaced and in need of professional treatment.
How Professional Intervention Can Help
If you suspect that your teeth have shifted, it’s in your best interest to consult with your dentist as soon as possible. The issue isn’t going to resolve itself on its own and can continue to progressively worsen without professional intervention. Some of the ways that shifted teeth can be resolved include traditional orthodontic options like metal braces or clear aligners, or oral appliance therapy like nightguards. Regardless of the cause, the issue can be easily handled, and you can go back to sporting your best, healthiest smile!
About the Practice
Here at Simply Orthodontics Milford, our talented team is excited to offer families in the Milford, MA community an exceptional level of dental care! We’re thrilled to provide patients of all ages with a wide variety of orthodontic solutions that are certain to help you and your loved ones achieve optimal oral health and beautiful, symmetrical teeth. If you have any questions about the blog or you’d like to schedule a visit for you or a loved one, don’t hesitate to contact us online or by phone today! Telephone: (508) 473-2002.