Teeth Shifting Mount Prospect

Have you noticed your teeth shifting lately?
Waking up one day to find that your teeth have shifted can be alarming. They might not look as straight as they used to, and you may even experience some pain.

This is a definite cause for concern, but it’s a fairly common occurrence. Today, you’ll learn why this is so common and what you can do to stop – and even reverse – the shift.

“My Teeth Are Shifting, and They Hurt!” Dental Emergency or Normal Occurrence?

Teeth shifting tends to happen as a person ages. Most people are under the impression that all dental changes stop at some point during childhood. But that’s not the case.

The soft tissues that surround the teeth are flexible, making the teeth prone to movement. This can happen slowly, over a long period. Or, it can occur rapidly.

What causes the teeth to shift faster than usual?

• Gaps in the mouth caused by missing teeth
• Spaces between the teeth
• Malocclusion (bite misalignment).

Some other causes of teeth shifting include:

• Genetics
• Poor dental care habits
• Bruxism (teeth grinding)
• Untreated dental decay
• TMJ disorder.

If you notice that your teeth are shifting, you should see Mount Prospect dentist, Dr. Tom Meyer, as soon as possible. Shifting can not only be caused by existing dental issues – it can lead to more serious ones.

For instance, overcrowding or misalignment can make it difficult to care for your teeth at home. You might not be able to floss some teeth as well as others. Or, your toothbrush isn’t able to reach every angle of your teeth.

This can lead to dental decay, as well as gum disease. If not remedied early, both scenarios can result in pain, infection, and tooth loss.

Thankfully, Mt Prospect dentist, Dr. Meyer, can help you prevent and reverse shifting teeth.

Preventative Steps to Reduce the Likelihood of Teeth Shifting

The first line of defense regular dental checkups, which allow your us to catch problems pertaining to your oral health early.

Another key is home care. Brush and floss daily. Also, limit acidic foods that can cause sensitivity and enamel erosion. Over time, the enamel can wear down, which can lead to cavities and shifting.

It’s also important to pay attention to your posture. Slouching puts tension on the muscles of your head and neck. That can lead to clenching, grinding, and shifting.

Steps Your Mount Prospect Dentist Will Take after Shifting Has Started

One of the best ways to fix shifting teeth is to treat them with Invisalign braces. The benefits of clear aligners include:

• They can help with crowding, crooked teeth, a narrow bite, and multiple other misalignment issues
• They’re removable, making home care a breeze (which reduces your risk of decay and gum disease!)
• They’re more comfortable than traditional metal braces.

Whether you’ve had braces in the past or this is your first time considering orthodontia, Invisalign braces are a great, long-lasting option to reverse shifted teeth.

Shifting Is Normal but Not Always Healthy or Ideal

Teeth shifting – it’s perfectly normal to experience this as you age. Unfortunately, it’s not always comfortable, nor is it healthy.

When your teeth shift and your bite changes, your dental health is in jeopardy. You can experience more dental issues, including dental decay, and gum disease.

Thankfully, you can take your dental health into your own hands. With help from Dr. Tom Meyer and your Mount Prospect dental team, you can reduce the shifting. And with Invisalign braces, you can even reverse it.

Talk to your dentist today to see how you can avoid dental issues related to shifting teeth.

Would you like to have a straight, healthy, beautiful smile? Contact us today to schedule an Invisalign consultation. At your consult, you’ll be able to see what your smile will look like before committing to treatment!