6 Signs Your Teeth Are Shifting Position

Mild teeth shifting over time is a normal part of aging and will occur as a result of chewing, talking, and breathing. Teeth move throughout a person’s lifetime, and there is a normal amount of teeth movement that is not cause for concern. However, when teeth move too much, it can cause serious issues.

Teeth shift more dramatically as a result of injury or impact to the face, teeth grinding (known as bruxism), poor oral health, crowding, or gaps in the teeth. When teeth shift too much, it can be a warning sign of an underlying problem, like gum disease, or it can cause issues, like changes in speech.

If you’ve noticed your teeth shifting position, visit a reputable orthodontic, like the specialist team at Glow Orthodontics, as soon as possible. However, sometimes it can be hard to notice teeth shifting as it can be more subtle – here are six signs that your teeth are shifting position.

1. Your retainer doesn’t fit anymore

Retainers are most effective when worn consistently. When you take nights off wearing your retainer or only wear it for short periods, your teeth can return to their original position. After orthodontic teeth-straightening treatments, like braces or Invisalign, your teeth are constantly moving, so it’s essential to wear your retainer regularly to keep your teeth straight. If your retainer does not fit correctly, you’ll need to see your orthodontist to create a new one based on your current teeth position.

2. New gaps in your teeth

When gaps appear between your teeth, it’s a common sign that your teeth are shifting. New gaps in your teeth (known as diastema) can be caused by pressures changing in the surrounding gum fibres and may be a warning sign for developing gum disease.

3. Gum pain and/or teeth pain

Pain in your gums and teeth can cause teeth to move and indicate tooth infection, thinning enamel, or gum disease, like periodontal disease. Periodontal disease is caused by bacterial plaque and reduces bone and gum support for your teeth. The disease can range from mild cases, causing inflammation in the gums, to more severe cases, which can increase tooth mobility and tooth loss.

4. Changes to your bite

If you’ve noticed discomfort or difficulty when chewing or biting, it can be an indication that your bite has changed. Changes to your bite can occur from malocclusion. Malocclusion is a condition that occurs when the teeth shift and create more space for other teeth to shift. The condition throws the bite out of alignment and can lead to irregularities in your bite.

5. Teeth crowding

Teeth crowding is an easy-to-spot sign that your teeth are shifting. Dental crowding occurs when your teeth rotate and cause a lack of space for them to fit within your jaw. Individuals experiencing overcrowded teeth often find daily oral habits more difficult, like flossing and brushing, and are more susceptible to plaque buildup and cavities.

6. Changes to your speech

When the position of your teeth shifts, your speech can change. As teeth shift, your tongue position adapts as well and forming words can become difficult. This often results in lisps and trouble pronouncing certain words, making your speech unclear for others to understand.

What to do if your teeth are shifting position

If you are experiencing any of the above signs of your teeth shifting, there are steps you can take to prevent further changes and get your teeth back in alignment.

Visit the orthodontist

Schedule an appointment with an AHPRA registered specialist orthodontist to assess the health of your teeth and gums and find the cause of why your teeth are shifting. Your orthodontist will recommend necessary steps to prevent further shifting and address issues caused by changes in teeth position. If orthodontic correction is desired, your orthodontist can also provide treatment options like a short period (4-8 months) of clear aligners or braces to straighten your teeth to the ideal positions.

Wear your retainer

If you’ve had orthodontic treatment in the past and obtained a retainer, it’s essential to wear it nightly or as directed by your orthodontist. As mentioned, wearing your retainer can stop your teeth from unwanted movements.

Practice good oral hygiene

Keeping up daily oral hygiene, like flossing and brushing twice a day, will help prevent gum diseases, like periodontal disease, that can cause teeth shifting.

Be aware of gum disease

If you do have gum disease, your orthodontist can diagnose it, recommend ways to address the issue, and provide solutions for the condition.

Conclusion

Teeth shifting is a normal part of the aging process, but it can also signal other oral health issues. If you’re concerned about your teeth movement, whether from aging, gum disease, or simply not wearing your retainer, it’s essential to see your orthodontist to stop unwanted teeth changes.

Glow Orthodontics is Sydney’s specialist orthodontic treatment clinic led by Dr Jessica Yeo. Our team provides personalised treatment plans for children, teens, and adults to address and resolve orthodontic issues, like tooth shifting. Get in touch with our friendly team today to achieve a confident, healthy smile.