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