Time can change a lot of things. Leaves eventually turn bright colors and fall off the trees, paint that sits in the sun all day can sometimes fade, and even your teeth can shift places in your mouth throughout your life. But while changes to your smile can happen due to a variety of reasons, there are thankfully many ways your orthodontist can help. Here are a few common causes of shifting teeth, and what you can do to stop them!
Why Teeth Move
There are many reasons why your teeth may shift over time. In teens and children these movements can occur due to developmental issues such as emerging adult teeth, because If their arches are not done growing or are too small to accommodate them, it can make their baby and adult teeth move, too.
Wisdom tooth development is another common culprit for shifting teeth. Third molars can often grow sideways, causing crowding or even pushing existing teeth until they move or break.
Another common cause is teeth grinding (bruxism). This can wear down the enamel, changing the size and shape of the teeth in the process. This leaves gaps in the arches and can cause them to shift positions.
How We Treat Shifted Teeth
If you or your child’s teeth have shifted with time, orthodontic treatment can help. Most kids can begin orthodontic treatment at around age nine, while teens can begin wearing Invisalign at approximately age 13, or as soon as they have all their permanent teeth. There is no limit to the age one can undergo orthodontic treatment, so adults can begin at any age.
Remember, it’s normal for your teeth to shift their placement over time, but there’s no need to settle for a bad bite. If you’d like to align your smile, speak to your orthodontist today about your options and stop tooth movement from affecting your smile.
About Our Practice
At Serenity Orthodontics, we are proud to help patients of all ages better align their smiles. If your teeth have shifted with time, or if your child needs help straightening out crooked teeth or a bad bite, speak to our orthodontists about your options. Schedule a consultation with us today by visiting our website to find a location near you.