You may look in the mirror one morning and notice that your teeth aren’t as perfectly aligned as they were a few years ago. While this can be frustrating, especially if you underwent orthodontic treatments to align your teeth in the first place, age-related teeth shifting is a common issue and there are measures you can take to address it. Here’s a brief overview of why teeth shift over time as well as how you can prevent or correct the problem.
Why Have My Teeth Shifted?
The human body continues to develop throughout its lifespan, and the mouth is no different. The teeth will shift to adapt to the changing shape of the face, and this can cause them to lose their alignment. Sometimes, teeth falling out of alignment can make them harder to clean and easier to injure, which can lead to tooth loss. A few reasons why your teeth may have shifted include:
- Natural aging: The way bones and muscles in the face change over the years may push teeth out of alignment.
- Poor oral hygiene: The gums and teeth will deteriorate over time if they are not properly cared for. This can diminish your mouth’s ability to support your teeth and cause them to change positions or be lost.
- Teeth grinding: Also called bruxism, teeth grinding is a common dental health issue that can happen voluntarily or involuntarily. This can wear down the edges of the teeth, changing the way they bite together and potentially stressing the TMJ joint that allows the jaw to move.
- Missing teeth: Once a tooth is lost, the part of the jawbone that supported it begins to atrophy. This can pull neighboring teeth out of alignment.
How Can I Address My Teeth Shifting?
Luckily, there are measures you can take to help your teeth stay healthy and in place. A few of these include:
- Practice excellent oral hygiene: Brushing, flossing, and antibacterial mouthwash can prevent tooth loss and gum disease that can dramatically reshape the jawbone and pull teeth out of alignment.
- Kick the grinding habit: If you grind your teeth while awake, being aware of the action can allow you to catch yourself in the act and break the habit.
- Wear a mouth guard: If you grind your teeth in your sleep, wearing a mouth guard can protect your teeth from damage and prevent discomfort.
- Orthodontic treatment: With a little effort on your part, traditional braces or Invisalign clear aligners can get your teeth back into shape. Consulting with your orthodontist can determine which treatments are a good fit for you.
About the Practice
Casady Square Orthodontics straightens out smiles for the community of Oklahoma City, OK. Led by Dr. Payam Ishani Afousi, the staff addresses each patient’s individual needs with personalized care and sincere concern. Areas of expertise include traditional braces, Invisalign clear aligners, and emergency orthodontics. For more information on what orthodontic treatments can do for you, contact the office online or dial (405) 254-5094.