Orthodontic treatments make teeth move to the desired position, but over time, they may still shift back to their original positions. This is why it’s important to wear retainers regularly, even after teeth are in their new, desired positions. But why do teeth shifting happen in the first place?
Elastic Memory
Whether you’ve undergone braces treatment, aligners, or other orthodontic treatments in the past, your teeth can shift at any point in your life. And while there are numerous reasons for it, the primary cause is teeth’s elastic memory.
This phenomenon is known as “elastic deformation,” and teeth are most prone to it when they have been in braces or aligners for an extended period. When teeth are shifted out of their original positions and then released, they have a certain amount of “elastic memory” that allows them to move back to their original positions.
If you’re asking why this happens, well, it’s just how teeth are made. Teeth have an inner pulp, which is a soft tissue containing nerves and blood vessels surrounded by a hard, calcified outer shell known as dentin. The teeth are naturally designed to move, which is why teeth shifting can happen even after successful orthodontic treatments.
Other Reasons Behind Teeth Shifting
Aside from elastic memory, there are other factors that can contribute to teeth shifting. These may happen before getting orthodontic treatment. They are some of the reasons why you need to wear braces or aligners in the first place.
If you haven’t had braces before but notice your teeth shifting from their original position, it could be because of the following reasons.
#1 – Extraction
When teeth are extracted, the teeth surrounding them will move over time to fill in the gap. Even if teeth were moved during treatment to fill in the gap, teeth shifting can still happen. For this reason, dentists recommend extraction as the last resort when treating teeth problems.
Also, there are some ways to prevent teeth shifting when you get an extraction. One of them is to get a teeth implant, which can help keep your teeth in the right place. For kids, there are so-called space maintainers that prevent teeth shifting.
#2 – Grinding or Clenching (Bruxism)
Grinding and clenching teeth are bad habits that can cause teeth to shift out of place. It’s important to address this issue as soon as possible by consulting with your dentist, as it can lead to more serious teeth problems such as worn teeth and jaw pain.
#3 – Gum Disease Causing Teeth Shifting
Gum disease is an infection that can cause teeth to shift out of place. When the teeth become loose and teeth shifting occurs, it’s important to get treatment for gum disease as soon as possible. This is because gum disease can progress rapidly and affect more teeth than it would if addressed immediately.
#4 – Pregnancy
During pregnancy, the teeth are more susceptible to teeth shifting due to hormonal changes in the body. It’s important to take extra care of your teeth during this time by brushing and flossing regularly and avoiding foods that can cause teeth shifting.
#5 – Trauma to the Mouth
Any trauma to teeth and gums can cause teeth shifting. This includes injuries from sports, accidents, or falls. If you experience any teeth trauma, it’s important to visit your dentist as soon as possible in order to minimize teeth shifting.
If you or your child is involved in athletic activities, it’s important to wear a mouthguard to protect teeth from trauma.
#6 – Non-Dental Reason
Unfortunately, teeth shifting can happen even when you’re simply sleeping. It can be caused by various things, like a low iron level or lack of vitamin D. It’s important to get a check-up with a doctor to rule out any non-dental reasons.
Get Proper Treatment for Teeth Shifting
When your teeth are out of position or you have an incorrect bite, a lot of things can happen. It can affect your digestion, speech, teeth grinding, teeth cleaning, and appearance. For these reasons, it’s important to consult an orthodontist and receive the necessary treatment.
Dr. Andrew Lasley of Centralia Orthodontics in Centralia, Washington, is a trusted orthodontist who can help you address teeth shifting and other misalignment issues. From metal braces to Invisalign, Dr. Lasley and his team provide excellent treatments that keep teeth in the right position.
Aside from dental school and an orthodontics certificate, Dr. Lasley has a background in engineering and biomechanics. It provides him with a unique perspective when evaluating and customizing treatment plans for orthodontic problems.
Dr. Lasley also performs surgical orthodontics in Centralia for the most severe teeth alignment cases. He takes a careful approach that is systematic and seeks orthodontic solutions that are effective and efficient, yet gentle and comfortable.
Schedule a Consultation with Dr. Andrew Lasley Today
If you’re having teeth shifting problems, contact Centralia Orthodontics and schedule an appointment with Dr. Andrew Lasley. His team of professionals is committed to providing excellent orthodontic care and teeth-straightening treatments that are tailored to each individual’s needs.
Book an appointment online or contact us if you have any questions about our orthodontic treatments. Our team is here to help you achieve a beautiful and healthy smile. You can also visit our website to learn more about teeth shifting and the treatments available.
