While most of us like to think that our teeth will stay where they are forever, it is not uncommon to find that your teeth can shift. While this realization can be concerning, it happens to many of us as we age. Learning how to prevent teeth shifting will help you care for your teeth and reduce the risk of needing emergency dental services in the future.
Why Are Your Teeth Shifting?
While anyone can experience teeth shifting, it often happens as a person gets older. Though many people believe that dental changes only occur during childhood, this is not true. The tissues around our teeth are flexible, making them susceptible to movement. While this may happen over a long period of time, it can also occur rapidly.
Teeth can shift faster than normal due to a bite misalignment, spaces in between the teeth, or gaps from missing teeth. Additionally, other factors like poor dental habits, genetics, teeth grinding, or untreated dental decay can affect your teeth.
Treating Shifting Teeth
Teeth shifting can affect your oral health. If you believe that your teeth are shifting, it is important to contact your dentist immediately. Shifting can lead to serious dental issues, so it is best to treat this sooner rather than later.
If shifting has already started in your teeth, your dentist will likely suggest braces. Braces will help realign crowded or crooked teeth and fix other misalignment problems.
Additionally, a mouth guard or retainer may be another solution your dentist recommends to prevent your teeth from shifting. Treatment depends on the amount your teeth have shifted and how severe your bite is. However, no treatment for shifting teeth is permanent. Consistently visiting your dentist is the best way to get ahead of any teeth-related issues.
How to Prevent Teeth from Shifting
Even with the various treatment options available, it is relatively normal to experience shifting teeth. However, it is best to prevent your teeth from shifting further if possible. Dentists recommend that clients prevent shifting by watching what they eat. Limiting acidic foods and brushing frequently is a great way to prevent teeth shifting.
Additionally, your sleeping position can contribute to the movement of your teeth. If you sleep on your stomach, it is best to start sleeping on your side or back to reduce the risk of teeth shifting. Likewise, poor posture can also trigger a shift in your teeth. This is especially true for anyone who likes to put their head in their hands as they use the computer. Prevent teeth shifting by making sure you practice good posture.
Improving Your Oral Health
Improving your oral health overall is an important way to care for your teeth and prevent teeth shifting. Brushing and flossing daily are important steps in caring for your teeth and limiting the shifting amount you experience.
Additionally, getting regular cleaning and checkups at Lovett Dental Northside is another way to improve your dental health. Our team of professionals offers services such as orthodontic dentistry, cosmetic dentistry, and children’s dentistry.
Regularly visiting the dentist will make it easier to monitor your oral health, and any teeth shifting concerns. Make sure to find a dentist; you can trust that you will visit consistently.
Teeth shifting can take a toll on your oral health. Take advantage of quality dental services to make sure your teeth are healthy. Contact Lovett Dental Northside at 713-691-5551 to learn more about the best treatment options for you.