Is Teeth Shifting Serious?
Does your smile look like it is changing? As we age, it is very natural for our teeth to shift. If you do notice significant changes with the positioning of your teeth, it can become a cause for concern. Shifting teeth can create a variety of issues, from aesthetic cosmetic issues to problems with your bite.
The Causes of Teeth Shifting
Before identifying any symptoms that your teeth might be shifting, it is important to understand the causes or reasons why. Here are a few common causes:
- Aging- As you age, your teeth naturally shift. This might be the result of changes in your jaw, bones, gums, or the wear and tear on your teeth.
- Tooth Loss- If you have lost a tooth, the neighboring teeth will immediately drift into the space, which can cause a change in your bite and the shifting position of your teeth.
- Gum Disease- Gum disease causes the bone supporting your teeth to weaken, which will lead to the shifting of your teeth.
- Trauma- If you have experienced some unfortunate trauma to your mouth, like a fall or a blow to your face, your teeth may shift.
- Bruxism- Bruxism, or teeth grinding, can easily cause your teeth to shift.
Signs Your Teeth are Shifting
Now that the common causes have been addressed, here are a few signs or symptoms to look for:
- Crooked Teeth- If you notice that your teeth are becoming more crooked, it is a sign that they are shifting.
- Gaps Between Teeth- If you notice new gaps between your teeth that have not been there, this can be a sign that your teeth are shifting.
- Bite Changes- Your teeth may be shifting if you feel changes in your bite, like discomfort while biting down or trouble chewing.
- Crowding- If you notice your teeth are getting closer together, this certainly indicates that they are shifting.
- Changes in Speech- Your teeth might be shifting if you notice some changes in your speech, such as a lisp or difficulty pronouncing certain words.
What to Do if You Notice Your Teeth are Shifting
If you identify signs that your teeth may be shifting, see your dentist as soon as possible. They will examine and evaluate your teeth and determine the reason for the shifting. Depending on the specific cause, your dentist might recommend one or more of the following treatments:
- Braces or Invisalign- If your teeth are shifting from crowding or new misalignment, they might recommend braces or Invisalign to both straighten and realign your teeth.
- Retainers- If your teeth are shifting because of tooth loss, your dentist may recommend a retainer to prevent any further shifting.
- Dental Implants- If you have lost a tooth, your dentist may recommend a dental implant to replace the missing tooth, fill the space, and prevent any further shifting.
- Gum Disease Treatment- If your teeth are shifting from gum disease, your dentist may recommend treatment to improve your gum health and prevent further teeth shifting.
Schedule an Examination
It is essential to visit your dentist soon if you notice any shifting in the alignment of your teeth. Teeth that are shifting can easily result in various problems, from aesthetic concerns to serious bite issues. Early intervention can halt any further harm and assure your teeth’s long-term health.