Have you ever looked in the mirror and noticed your teeth seem to have moved since your last dental visit, or even since your teenage years? You’re not imagining things. Teeth naturally shift over time due to a variety of factors. Even if you’ve had braces in the past, your smile isn’t guaranteed to stay perfectly straight forever. Let’s explore the most common reasons teeth shift and what you can do to help keep your smile in alignment.
Natural Aging Process
One of the biggest culprits behind shifting teeth is simply getting older. As we age, our jawbone and facial structures gradually change. The lower jaw, in particular, tends to shift slightly forward and narrow, which can crowd the front teeth and cause them to overlap or tilt.
Tooth Loss
When you lose a tooth and don’t replace it, the surrounding teeth will often drift into the empty space. This can throw off your bite and lead to further shifting. The bone that once supported the missing tooth may also begin to deteriorate, changing the alignment of neighboring teeth.
Grinding or Clenching (Bruxism)
People who grind or clench their teeth, especially at night, place a lot of pressure on their teeth and jaw. Over time, this can wear down enamel, loosen teeth, and cause them to shift. Bruxism also contributes to bite problems and jaw pain.
Not Wearing Retainers After Orthodontic Treatment
If you had braces or Invisalign in the past, your orthodontist likely provided a retainer to wear after treatment. Not wearing your retainer as directed is one of the most common reasons teeth shift again. Teeth have a natural tendency to return to their original positions, a process known as “orthodontic relapse.”
Gum Disease
Gum disease (periodontal disease) affects the tissues and bone that support your teeth. As these structures weaken or recede, teeth can loosen and begin to move. Advanced gum disease can even lead to tooth loss if left untreated.
Poor Oral Habits
Some everyday habits can cause teeth to shift without you realizing it. These include:
- Thumb sucking or tongue thrusting in children.
- Chewing on pens or fingernails.
- Using your teeth to open packages.
Even minor repeated pressure can change how teeth sit in your mouth over time.
Wisdom Teeth
When wisdom teeth erupt in early adulthood, they may push against nearby teeth, especially if there isn’t enough room in your jaw. This added pressure can crowd or shift your existing teeth, even if they were previously straight.
How to Prevent or Manage Shifting Teeth
- Wear your retainer consistently if you’ve had orthodontic treatment.
- Maintain good oral hygiene to avoid gum disease.
- Replace missing teeth promptly with bridges, implants, or partial dentures.
- Use a nightguard if you grind your teeth.
- Schedule regular dental checkups to catch shifting early.
Teeth naturally move throughout life due to age, habits, and oral health conditions. While some shifting is normal, significant changes can affect your appearance, bite, and overall dental health. If you notice your teeth shifting, talk to your dentist or orthodontist. Early intervention can help preserve your smile for years to come.
About the Author
Dr. Marissa Mikolich has more than a decade of experience helping her patients achieve flawless smiles. She is a graduate of the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine, and in order to provide advanced orthodontic care, Dr. Mikolich earned her master of science degree in oral biology at The Ohio State University College of Dentistry. Are shifting teeth beginning to worry you? Dr. Mikolich and our team can help straighten out your smile with orthodontic treatment. Just head to our website to schedule your appointment or call (330) 967-4110.