How to Prevent Teeth from Shifting
First of all, it is completely normal that the teeth are not completely fixed. This is because the alveolar-dental ligaments, whose role is to connect the teeth to the gums and the jawbone, are elastic. This means your teeth have some natural give to them - however, there is a difference between minor mobility due to these ligaments and the actual shifting of your teeth.
Why Teeth Move and How You Can Fix It
Your teeth move over time for several reasons. However, you don't just have to live with it and endure the pain, discomfort, and effects on the appearance of shifting teeth. If you're wondering how to stop your teeth from shifting, keep reading below for more details on why this happens and what you can do to prevent it in the future.
Teeth Can Move Naturally
Sometimes shifting of the lower front teeth can occur as you age. Several physiological changes can occur in your mouth, such as the reduction of your lower jaw. Your lips may also become tighter as you age, putting more pressure on your teeth. You may also experience symptoms of shifting teeth if you have developed some type of gum disease. Over time, this can lead to the loss of the bone support that holds your teeth in place. Without adequate gum support and the effects of bone erosion, your teeth will then shift.
Either way, shifting teeth can lead to a misaligned mouth. You may experience pain from shifting teeth as well as ongoing discomfort, and the effects of shifting teeth can even affect the appearance of your mouth. In the worst-case scenario, shifting teeth can lead to tooth loss. You can do something about the problem before it gets worse and costs you dearly, both in terms of discomfort and dental treatment costs.
How to Stop the Damage Caused by Shifting Teeth
You can reverse the effects of shifting teeth and help move them back into place. Additionally, a tooth shifting solution can also help alleviate any pain or discomfort you may be experiencing. You can also restore the straight, healthy appearance of your teeth.
There are things you can do on your own, such as taking steps to stop grinding your teeth and maintaining better oral hygiene.
However, these are just part of the picture, and you will often need something else to keep your teeth from shifting.
Even if you are an adult and it seems impossible, you can still benefit from wearing braces that can move your teeth back into place or a retainer that can keep your teeth where they are. While you may associate braces with unsightly wires and an intrusive appearance, these days there are many other options available. You can get clear braces or invisible aligners for your mouth that no one else will notice while they do the work of perfecting your smile.
If you suspect or notice that your teeth are shifting in your mouth, it is important to intervene as soon as possible. Contact your dentist or an orthodontist to begin treatment and avoid the damage that can be caused if the teeth shift too much.