Many people think of their teeth as a stationary part of their body. The truth is, though, that teeth are dynamic! They are capable of movement, and in some cases, they can shift unexpectedly. What can cause that to happen, and how can you get your smile back into proper alignment? This blog post explains some important information.
How Do Teeth Move?
Teeth are not “stuck” in the jawbone. Rather, they are attached to the bone by small connective tissues called ligaments. Ligaments are stretchy, which means that teeth have a natural capacity for small movements. That is why braces work. As the braces apply pressure, the teeth gradually shift. The bone remodels around them to accommodate their new positions.
What Causes Teeth to Shift?
Teeth can stay in place for many years at a time. However, they can move for various reasons:
- Failure to wear a retainer. If you wore braces in the past, a retainer can keep your teeth in their proper places. Failure to wear it may allow your teeth to revert to their former positions.
- A missing tooth. If you lost a tooth and choose not to replace it, the nearby teeth may naturally start to drift into the empty space.
- Nighttime teeth grinding or bruxism. Chronic teeth grinding and clenching can place a lot of pressure on the teeth and cause them to move.
- Gum disease. Advanced gum disease can destroy the bone that supports teeth, causing them to loosen and shift.
- Natural aging. As you grow older, natural changes in your jawbone can cause your teeth to shift.
Getting Your Smile Back into Alignment
Whatever the reason for your unwanted tooth movements, it is important that you get your teeth back into proper alignment. Otherwise, you could end up with some significant dental problems, such as a poor bite, TMJ disorder, and other complications. Dr. Hall and our team can evaluate the positioning of your teeth and design a treatment plan to reposition your teeth in their ideal places. If your teeth have not moved too much, it should not be difficult to get them back to where they belong.
Shifting teeth can happen to anyone! Fortunately, treatments are available that can allow you to achieve and maintain a healthy, well-aligned smile.
Meet the Practice
Dr. Tom Hall is an experienced orthodontist who has completed extensive training in various areas of his profession. If you are concerned about shifting teeth, he can evaluate the situation and recommend your next steps. To learn more about him and how our Houston team may be able to serve you, contact Hall Orthodontics & TMJ at 713-862-8223.