What Is Teeth Shifting?
Your teeth are held in place by tiny membranes called periodontal ligaments. These ligaments or membranes secure the tooth to the inside of the socket. The teeth can move around in the socket slightly. It takes a great deal of force to break the membrane and make the tooth come out. In certain situations, the tooth will not move around when it is fused to the bone (ankylosis). Some teeth have roots that can be extremely long that can go into the sinus cavity on the top jaw or around the bone of the bottom jaw. These teeth will not come out too easily either.
Why Does Teeth Shifting Happen?
Teeth will move forward due to gravity by themselves. This can take years to occur. Most commonly, they can be manually pushed forward by third molars (wisdom teeth). Or just the growth pattern can cause the teeth to come in too close together. Sometimes genetics can cause this growth pattern. In these situations overcrowding of the front teeth is evident. In cases where there is a tooth that is missing and there is a tooth remaining near it, the tooth behind the space will move forward overtime to try to fill it in.
Treatment Options
It is important to keep the teeth from shifting forward and causing too much crowding for a couple of reasons. One, it is difficult to keep the area clean where you cannot floss and a brush won't reach. Two, the crowding can speech problems. In the case of the missing teeth, constructing a bridge to fill the space keeps the back tooth from moving forward. It also keeps cavities from starting on the exposed root. Another procedure option in this case is an implant.
Procedures to correct these issues include Invisalign, crowns, bridges, partial dentures, and space maintainers. Each patient is different and has specific dental needs. If you have noticed that your teeth have shifted it may be time to visit Your Dental Office, located in Toronto and Etobicoke, for a consultation. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.