Are Your Teeth Supposed to Move Around?

The short answer is no, but there is more to it than a simple yes or no, one-sentence answer. Teeth shifting is natural when you first get braces, they are moving of course, but after braces or if there hasn’t ever been an orthodontic device installed shifting teeth is not a good sign. So, if this is something you’ve been experiencing, it’s best to seek the help of an orthodontist or other doctor with gum or tooth specializations.

So Why is Shifting Teeth a Problem?

Your teeth shifting can open the opportunity for decay and further gum disease. Especially if there is an existing level of gum disease shifting can escalate the symptoms and worsen overall periodontal health. It can also cause previously corrected orthodontic issues to reappear or create new orthodontic issues that necessitate further treatment. 

Shifting can also cause discomfort within the mouth, especially if teeth are misaligned and hit the lips and cheeks at strange angles. This also typically leads to additional orthodontic treatment. Shifting can be a symptom of an existing dental condition and can lead to numerous more serious dental conditions in the future. The best course of action is to call your orthodontist or dentist and schedule a time to come and get any shifting of teeth professionally evaluated. 

Potential Causes of Tooth Shifting:

Aging and general wear on teeth can cause mild shifting as you age. Bites can change over many years, even after orthodontic treatment. This can be prevented if your retainers are regularly and consistently worn after treatment. Shifting during orthodontic treatment is natural and to be expected. During this time minimal shifting is not a cause for concern, but you can still mention anything concerning during your orthodontic checkup. 

Other potential causes include grinding, also known as bruxism, and impact or injury to the mouth or face. Gum disease is also a frequent cause of teeth shifting, along with tooth decay and other oral diseases. Gaps caused by missing teeth whether from extraction or poor growth pattern can also cause shifting. 

Preventative Measures:

Thankfully, there are some ways that you can prevent teeth from shifting just by practicing proper oral health. Brushing and flossing twice a day to your dentist’s standards promotes gum health and overall tooth health, which reduces the chances of shifting. 

Avoiding things that are high in sugar and acid can also prevent premature aging and shifting of the teeth. Additionally, avoiding tobacco and smoking can help prevent shifting as well as better general and oral health.