Post Braces & Wisdom Teeth Removal with Shifting Teeth
Patients often think their teeth are firmly set in place after they are done growing. Over time, the teeth actually continue to move and shift. In most cases, this is normal and does not cause problems as the movement is minor. In some cases, however, this movement is quite pronounced and results in malocclusion or crookedness. It is possible for this shifting to even cause pain or discomfort.
Various things can result in the teeth changing position. This may include wearing braces or completing orthodontic treatments, tooth extraction, grinding teeth, jaw growth, and gum disease or other oral health issues. Patients may even notice their teeth shift after using a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy device for sleep issues. The following article will review causes of shifting teeth and how various factors can impact the alignment of the teeth.
Braces
Braces are a common orthodontic treatment. Braces include brackets which are attached to the teeth and slowly use pressure to move the teeth into the desired location. Other types of orthodontic treatments can include Invisalign, removable retainers, and orthodontic appliances. These things all work to make the teeth straight and achieve good alignment.
Braces and other orthodontic treatments effectively restore uneven smiles and straighten the teeth, the teeth can shift back to their original position over time. Patients who lose their retainer or fail to wear it regularly may notice that their teeth begin to gradually revert back to their original position. In some cases, the retainer may not fit or cause discomfort after significant movement.
Significant motion can also arise due to problems with fixed retainers. A fixed retainer is permanently bonded to the teeth and is often installed following braces in order to maintain alignment. Issues with retainers such as broken wires or issues with the bonding agents can result in teeth shifting.
Routine Checkups
During and after orthodontic treatment, it is very important for patients to complete their appointments. These appointments help the orthodontist to detect tooth shifting and other problems right away. During treatment, patients may need to attend visits on a monthly. These appointments will be far less frequent once treatment is completed. Patients should notify their orthodontist immediately if they experience any issues, discomfort, or if the appliances are damaged.
Tooth Extraction
The remove of a tooth or extraction is another common cause of tooth shifting. Below are common reasons for a tooth extraction:
- Crowded teeth
- Crookedness
- Tooth infection or abscess
- Severe gum disease
- Impacted tooth or a tooth which does not erupt properly
- Damage from trauma or an accident
It is important to replace a tooth after extraction to ensure the remaining teeth do not shift into the new space.
Grinding
Teeth grinding or can cause serious oral health issues. Patients who chronically grind their teeth or clench their jaw can damage their teeth over time. In some cases, patients primarily grind their teeth at night. Stress can also be the culprit for grinding and clenching of the jaw.
Bruxism can cause headaches, jaw pain, and clicking of the jaw in addition to affecting the position of the teeth. Grinding can cause cracks and chips, resulting in damage and compromising the teeth. Grinding place consistent pressure on the teeth and can lead to crooked teeth, shifting, and other issues.