Top 5 Reasons Your Teeth May Shift Out of Place

It’s natural for your body to change as you get older. However, it might surprise you to know that your teeth can shift too. Over time, your pearly whites can change positions for various reasons. And while this might not be unsettling, it can significantly impact your oral health later on. Keep reading to learn about the common causes of shifting teeth and how your dentist in Grand Prairie can help fix it!

What Causes Teeth to Move Out of Place?

Here are several of the most common reasons your teeth can begin to shift over the years:

• Natural aging: Over time, your jaw muscles, ligaments, and oral tissues can start to weaken like the rest of your body. This can result in your teeth becoming looser and your bite shifting. Even your lips may get thinner as you age, creating pressure on your pearly whites and pushing them inward.
• Tooth loss: Have you lost one or more teeth due to illness, injury, or aging? If so, any remaining ones can gradually move out of place to try and close the gap in your smile.
• Gum disease: Gingivitis or periodontal disease can be detrimental to your gum and jawbone tissue, which can result in your teeth shifting. If left untreated, the condition can lead to more serious oral health issues, like tooth loss, lung disease, and heart attacks.
• Jaw movement: Our jaw structure can begin to change as we grow older. The jawbone tends to move forward over the years, causing movement in your teeth as well.
• Teeth grinding (bruxism): If you tend to grind your teeth while sleeping, then you could be at risk of wearing down your smile or altering the shape of your pearly whites. This can also result in unexpected shifts in your bite.

How Can Your Dentist Address the Issue?

Are you unhappy with the changes in your smile over the years? Fortunately, your dentist might be able to address your orthodontic concerns with treatments like Invisalign. While clear aligners can effectively straighten your teeth similar to traditional braces, you won’t have to worry about wearing metal brackets or wires to get the results you want. This treatment process is much quicker and more discreet, allowing you to show off your smile while gradually correcting your bite alignment.

Although your teeth can shift over time, it doesn’t mean you have to settle on living with a grin you aren’t proud of. Speak with your dentist if you’re interested in Invisalign, and they’ll be more than happy to see if you’re eligible for the treatment!

About the Author

Dr. Heliben Desai earned her dental doctorate from the Rutgers School of Dental Medicine in Jersey. She also regularly seeks continuing education to refine her skills and is a member of both the Texas Dental Association and the American Dental Association. She offers a wide selection of high-quality and comprehensive services, including Invisalign. If you’d like to set up a consultation, visit her website or call 469-837-8351.