Teeth shifting: What causes it and how to treat it

Why are my teeth shifting?

Your teeth are fixed into your jawbone and held in place by flexible ligaments, so they can move naturally as your jaw changes. There are many reasons why your teeth might move out of place, including the following.

Forgetting to wear your retainer

If you’ve had braces or Invisalign to straighten your teeth, your orthodontist likely gave you a removable retainer to wear after your treatment. A retainer is a flexible, plastic mould that fits over your teeth to keep them in place.

But if you don’t follow your orthodontists instructions and wear your retainer correctly, your teeth can shift back toward their original position.

Grinding your teeth (Bruxism)

Rubbing or clenching your teeth together, also known as Bruxism, also puts a lot of pressure on your mouth. You might not be aware you grind your teeth, because it often happens when you’re feeling stressed or sleeping. Over time, this constant clenching can wear your teeth down and push them out of alignment.

Developing gum disease

Gum disease is usually caused by a build-up of plaque when you don’t clean your teeth thoroughly. It can cause the tissues that surround your teeth to become inflamed, making them:

• red
• sore
• swollen
• bleed when you brush

Over time, gum disease can weaken the bones and tissue that hold your teeth in place, and make your teeth wobble and move.

Losing a tooth

If one of your teeth is missing, due to an injury or tooth removal, the teeth on either side might move into the gap to fill it. If this happens, it’s a good idea to talk to your dentist about ways to replace your missing tooth.

Experiencing jaw changes

Your jaw changes shape as you get older, and your teeth can become crowded as a result.

Going through pregnancy

During pregnancy, you might notice changes to your teeth and gums that can make them move over time. There are lots of reasons behind this, for example:

• Changes to your hormones can make you more likely to develop gum disease.
• Nausea and vomiting can make your mouth acidic, leading to tooth erosion.

How can I stop my teeth from shifting?

There are things you can do to help keep your teeth where you want them.

See your dentist regularly

Start by scheduling routine checkups with your dentist so they can monitor any changes in your oral health. They might be able to spot any changes to the position of your teeth – or something that could make them move – early on.

Take good care of your teeth

It’s important to look after your teeth and gums. This can help prevent problems like gum disease – which can cause your teeth to shift. To do this:

• Brush your teeth twice a day using a fluoride toothpaste.
• Spit instead of rinsing when you brush, to keep the fluoride on your teeth.
• Clean between your teeth with floss, an interdental brush, or water flosser once a day.
• Limit how much sugary food and drink you consume.

Treat dental problems early

If you or your dentist discover any problems with your dental health, get treatment as soon as possible. Finding and treating oral health problems early on can prevent them getting worse and causing your teeth to shift.

Wear your retainer as advised

If you’ve had orthodontic treatment in the past, and you have a retainer, make sure to follow your orthodontists instructions. Wearing your retainer correctly can stop them shifting back into their natural position.

Replace missing teeth if needed

It’s a good idea to replace any missing teeth, so that the nearby teeth can’t move into the empty space. Your dentist can explain your tooth replacement options, such as a dental implant or bridge.

Protect your teeth with a mouthguard

If you grind your teeth (Bruxism), ask your dentist about using a mouthguard at night. This is a flexible plastic device you wear over your teeth at night to protect them from grinding.

Look after your teeth in pregnancy

During pregnancy, take extra care of your teeth and visit your dentist regularly. They can help you understand the effect pregnancy can have on your teeth and help you keep your mouth healthy.

Can shifting teeth be corrected?

If your teeth have shifted and you’re unhappy with the way they look – or they’re causing you any pain – make an appointment to see a dentist. They can go through all your options, which may include:

• Straightening your teeth with braces or clear aligners.
• Replacing a missing tooth with a dental implant, denture or bridge.
• Improving the look of crooked or worn teeth with veneers, composite bonding or a crown.
• Treating problems like gum disease, or teeth grinding.