You might assume that once your teeth are straight, they’ll stay that way forever. However, teeth are not fixed in place—they can shift gradually over time due to a variety of factors. Even small movements can affect the way your bite fits together or how your smile looks. Understanding why teeth shift and how to correct it can help you preserve a healthy, aligned smile for life.
Natural Aging and Bone Changes
As you age, your jawbone naturally changes in shape and density. This slow remodeling process can cause teeth to move slightly out of their original positions. Gum recession and wear on the teeth can also alter how your bite fits together, allowing for gradual shifting. These subtle movements might not be noticeable at first but can become more apparent over time, especially in the lower front teeth.
Tooth Loss and Gaps
When you lose a tooth, the surrounding teeth no longer have the same level of support. As a result, they may begin to drift into the open space, tilting or rotating over time. This can lead to alignment issues, bite problems, and difficulty cleaning between teeth. Replacing missing teeth promptly—either with dental restorations or orthodontic correction—helps maintain your smile’s structure and prevents further shifting.
Grinding and Clenching
Chronic teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, puts constant pressure on the teeth and jaw. Over time, this repeated force can cause teeth to wear unevenly or move slightly out of place. The shifting can also contribute to jaw discomfort or even temporomandibular joint (TMJ) issues. Wearing a custom nightguard and addressing grinding habits early can minimize long-term effects on your alignment.
Gum Disease and Bone Loss
Advanced gum disease doesn’t just affect your gums—it can also damage the bone that supports your teeth. As that foundation weakens, teeth can loosen and shift. Maintaining good oral hygiene and visiting your dentist regularly for cleanings and periodontal checkups are crucial for preventing gum-related tooth movement.
Retainer Neglect After Orthodontic Treatment
After completing orthodontic treatment, retainers are essential for keeping your teeth in their new positions. Without consistent retainer use, your teeth can slowly drift back toward their original alignment—a process known as relapse. Wearing your retainer as directed is one of the most effective ways to prevent post-treatment shifting.
How Dentists Can Correct Shifting Teeth
If your teeth have moved out of place, your dentist or orthodontist can recommend several treatment options based on the extent of the shifting and your overall goals. For patients who want to realign their teeth discreetly, Invisalign is a popular choice that uses clear, removable trays to gently guide teeth into better positions. Traditional braces may be recommended for more significant or complex movement.
In some cases, veneers can help correct the appearance of slightly misaligned or uneven teeth, offering both aesthetic improvement and functional balance.
The Straight Truth on Shifting Teeth
Tooth movement is a natural part of life, but it doesn’t have to compromise your smile. By maintaining good habits, replacing missing teeth, and seeking timely treatment, you can keep your smile healthy, straight, and confident.
About the Practice
Dr. Wigal and Dr. Kluemper of Wigal Orthodontics provide customized orthodontic solutions tailored to each patient’s individual needs. We specialize in traditional braces and comprehensive treatment, helping patients of all ages achieve stable, lasting results. Whether you’re seeking to correct shifting teeth or improve your bite, Wigal Orthodontics is here to guide your smile journey.
Call us at (740) 281-0445 or request an appointment online.