Why Do Teeth Shift?
Despite how it seems, teeth constantly shift. This movement may be slight, but it continues for your whole life. This includes before, during, and after you wear braces.
There are multiple reasons for this movement. For instance, your jaw will naturally change shape as you age. Everyday activities like chewing and talking also put pressure on your teeth that can slightly change their position.
Some factors are more pronounced than others. If you have gum disease or grind your teeth, you might experience increased shifting. This can also happen when you lose teeth to injury, decay, or dental extractions — the surrounding teeth move to fill in the gap.
How To Stop Teeth Shifting After Braces
Fortunately, shifting teeth isn’t a predetermined outcome. By talking with your dental team, you can come up with an oral care plan that helps minimize movement. For instance, you might:
Wear a retainer or mouthguard: Impermanent and permanent retainers can be easy solutions for keeping your teeth in place after getting your braces off. Many dentists recommend retainers as a matter of course, and you don’t have to wear them 24/7. If you grind your teeth, your orthodontic specialist may advise you to use a mouthguard while you sleep.
Replace missing teeth: If you have missing teeth or lose them in the future, getting dental implants or bridges can fill in gaps. This reduces the tendency for nearby teeth to self-adjust.
Get checked out regularly: Gum disease is a leading culprit of loose and shifting teeth. Don’t wait for periodontitis to weaken your gums. Make dentist visits a habit.
Consider CPAP alternatives: People with sleep apnea experience breathing starts and stops while they sleep. Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machines are a common treatment, but they may cause your teeth to shift.
Learn More About Your Dental Future at Advanced Orthodontic Care
Getting braces isn’t a permanent fix for every oral health issue, but there are plenty of other options. Talk to an orthodontist who cares about your dental health by visiting Dr. Robert Rudman and Dr. Jeff Birg at Advanced Orthodontic Care in Denver, CO.
Our team has over 150 years of combined experience treating patients, and we would love to help you reach your smile goals.
You can get started by calling 303-331-0222 or requesting an appointment online.
