It is no secret that as you grow older, your hair, skin, facial features, and body weight tend to change. But what should always remain the same is the placement and positioning of your teeth. Should you notice your teeth are shifting out of alignment, you will need to seek the help of a professional as soon as possible. Why? Because it is not normal! Read on to discover what can cause your pearly whites to move and the type of treatments you can pursue to improve your oral health and aesthetics.
Why Do Teeth Shift?
Whether you are 40, 50, or 65 years old, the last thing you want to deal with are issues pertaining to your smile. Unfortunately, certain problems can arise that are not always within your control. Should you notice your teeth beginning to shift, it may be because of one of the following reasons:
- Bruxism
- Reduction of Bone Density
- Shifting Jaw Structure
- Aging
- Tooth Loss
- Gum Disease
- Dental Implant or Dental Bridge Placement
- Tooth Removal
- Lack of Retainer Use After Orthodontic Treatment
Which Dental Treatments Can Hide Shifting Teeth?
While none of the above-mentioned causes are ones you want to experience, there are steps you can take to prevent your teeth from shifting further out of alignment, causing worsening oral health problems.
The first step you should take is to contact your dentist in DuPont to inquire about available treatments that are designed to address shifting teeth. During your scheduled consultation, you and your dental professional can discuss your goals as well as the underlying reason your teeth are continuing to move. Fortunately, there are several options that make it possible to bring your pearly whites back into alignment and leave you with a healthier, more beautiful smile.
Some of the most common treatment methods used by dentists include:
- Veneers: These customized shell-like coverings are placed snugly over the front surfaces of your teeth, hiding imperfections of all kinds. Even with misshapen or misaligned teeth, veneers can create a uniform look that can last up to 10 years or more (with proper care).
- Nightguards: If you are prone to grinding your teeth while you sleep, your dentist can have a customized nightguard created to keep your teeth from touching. This not only minimizes the potential for shifting teeth but also reduces wear and tear to your tooth enamel.
- Dental Implants/Dental Bridges: Although these can slightly change the placement of your teeth, they are highly beneficial in minimizing the risk of healthy teeth shifting out of alignment in an attempt to cover a vacated socket.
Do not be fooled into thinking shifting teeth is a normal occurrence. If you begin to notice any changes in your smile, talk to your dentist right away to find out if you require immediate treatment to avoid more serious problems in the future.
About the Practice
Dupont Family Dentistry has four dental professionals who all strive to meet the same goal, which is to help patients achieve happier, healthier smiles. When dealing with shifting teeth, our team can provide effective treatments to mitigate the continuous problem while breathing new life into your smile. Contact us at (253) 964-7000 and let us provide the right method of treatment, so you can continue to enjoy your healthier smile.