Did you know that your teeth can gradually shift as you get older?
This information might be a little bit shocking, but it’s true. Teeth shifting is a natural process that progresses with age.
Why does teeth shifting occur? There are many answers to this question, including:
Periodontal diseases
Not flossing regularly leads to decaying teeth, bleeding gums, bad breath, and weakens the support system. This butterfly effect, in turn, contributes to the weakening of alveolar bone and causes teeth to shift. Such diseases are commonly referred to as periodontal diseases and are the major contributors to teeth shifting.
Weakened enamel
Weakened enamel is often caused by gastrointestinal problems, dry mouth, or acid corrosion from foods we eat. This changes the shape of the teeth significantly and therefore causes the teeth to shift.
Not wearing a retainer properly
After a clear aligner or metal braces treatment, an orthodontist usually recommends a retainer to the patients. If you don’t wear that retainer properly and regularly, you are making a huge mistake!
It’s natural for the teeth to move back to their original position when the braces’ hardware comes off. A retainer helps in preventing that. It also keeps the teeth in shape and allows you to maintain your beautiful smile.
Bruxism
Bruxism, also known as teeth grinding causes the wear and tear of teeth. This clenching puts pressure on teeth and forces them to move in different directions.
Similar to bruxism, teeth shifting may occur from day-to-day tasks like talking or eating that place pressure onto your teeth.
Age
All the above conditions are unfortunately more prevalent as age increases. Teeth shifting comes naturally when there is sustained pressure and weakened bones.
Can You Prevent It?
Yes definitely!
Teeth shifting may show itself in several forms, including crowded teeth, overbites, underbites, or gapped teeth. Some simple ways that can help prevent shifting of teeth include:
Addressing teeth grinding and gum infections immediately
Maintaining proper and regular oral hygiene and flossing every day (this is important!)
Wearing your retainer if you previously had teeth straightening treatment
Treating decayed teeth
Scheduling regular dental appointments
However, the best answer to this problem is clear aligners. Clear aligners have proven to be the best long-term and effective method for minimizing teeth shifting and correcting minor teeth movement.
Clear aligners are transparent orthodontic devices used as an alternative to traditional braces. They are well-known for fixing and guiding the position of teeth and reducing the teeth shift. They are great for correcting teeth shifting because they apply gentle pressure on your teeth that penetrates your roots and then to the jaws.
The plus point? You can get them at any age. You probably are worried that treatment as an adult is difficult and time-consuming, but that’s not the case. Clear aligners will work for you even if you are an adult, a child, an elderly or a teenager.
The data chart below shows the observed improvement in patients after getting the clear aligners. The high stats indicate great results.
