Symptoms & Symptoms of Shifting Teeth
Shifting teeth can be caused by several different issues, and they may appear as visible changes in dental alignment, irregularities with the bite, visible gaps between the teeth, and loose teeth. Understanding symptoms of shifting teeth can help you recognize signs of the condition and seek treatment before complications arise. There are multiple factors that can contribute to shifting teeth, including normal wear and tear, aging, tooth loss, lifestyle choices and habits, and dangerous dental conditions like tooth decay and periodontal disease. There are also multiple signs that the teeth have shifted or are shifting, including visible or noticeable movement of the teeth, irregularities in the bite that could be uncomfortable or interfere with eating, noticeable crowding of the teeth that interferes with the ability to keep them clean, or new gaps and spaces between once-snug teeth.
Addressing shifting teeth early on can prevent serious complications from arising. If left untreated, shifting teeth can interfere with the oral health. Dental misalignment can cause jaw pain and interfere with comfortable eating and speaking, and it can also lead to uneven wear on the teeth that increases the risk of fracture and decay. Teeth that have shifted and become crowded are more difficult to clean, which increases the likelihood of gum disease, tooth decay, and infections developing. Teeth shifting can also interfere with the jaw, leading to temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ), which comes with jaw pain, headaches, restricted movement, and uncomfortable clicking or popping sensations in the jaw.
If you notice any signs that your teeth are shifting, see your dentist. Treatment isn’t always necessary, though consistent monitoring by a professional can facilitate prompt treatment when the need does arise. Regular dental checkups give your dentist the opportunity to monitor your overall oral health while identifying early indications of tooth shifting or other concerns. Significant shifts in the position of the teeth can be treated with orthodontic therapies like braces, retainers, or clear aligning trays like Invisalign, which help realign the teeth and correct the bite. Practicing good oral hygiene can help keep the oral tissues strong and prevent additional tooth shifting, and, when the teeth have shifted due to gum disease, treating the gum disease can repair the oral tissues and stabilize the teeth. Habitually using the teeth for anything other than eating, like biting your nails or chewing on pens or non-food items, can weaken the teeth and oral tissues and encourage teeth shifting while increasing the risk of cracks and fractures in the teeth. Wearing a mouthguard during contact sports or while sleeping, especially if you chronically grind your teeth or clench your jaw, can help prevent forces and trauma that could cause the teeth to shift, whether this movement is sudden or gradual.
If you see any new spaces or gaps between your teeth, or if they appear at unusual angles, see your dentist. With a thorough evaluation, your dentist can assess the health and alignment of your teeth and refer you to an orthodontist for treatment if necessary. Early attention from a dentist can prevent complications that often arise from shifting teeth and ensure optimal treatment outcomes. While treatment might not always be necessary, let your dentist make that determination, and work with your dental team to preserve your oral health if you see any symptoms of shifting teeth.