Have you ever looked in the mirror and noticed a new gap in your smile? Or closely examined your smile only to see overlapping teeth you’ve never noticed before? Then you are not alone. Even if you have had braces before, you may notice that your once straight teeth are starting to shift into a new position. Your dentist in Irving shares four common causes and how to prevent it from happening to you!
#1. Not Wearing Your Retainer
According to the American Association of Orthodontics, roughly 80% of those undergoing orthodontic care fall between the ages of 6 and 18 years old. For patients who make up that statistic, you may assume that the treatment you got as a child would lead to a lifetime of straight teeth. However, if you do not wear your retainer, then your teeth will shift back into their previous position over the following months or years. Therefore, it is of the utmost importance to routinely wear your retainer, even if it’s only at night!
#2. Grinding Your Teeth
Did you know that an estimated 10% of adults and 15% of kids grind their teeth? Although this condition is widely known for the “nails on a chalkboard” sound, few are aware of the damaging effects it can have on your teeth. In addition to leaving your teeth vulnerable to cracks and fractures, the pressure from grinding your teeth can also shift them into a new position. To prevent this from happening to you, talk to your dentist about wearing a custom mouthguard.
#3. Changes to Your Jawbone
As you age, it is natural for your jawbone to grow forward and become narrow. While this change to your facial structure is expected to occur, it can result in crowded, crooked teeth or new gaps that weren’t previously there. Since this is a normal part of the aging process, the best method of prevention is to continue to see your dentist twice a year for routine visits. That way, they can personally address the changes to your smile and discuss which treatment options are best for you.
#4. Periodontal Disease
Did you know that half of U.S. adults over the age of 30 have periodontitis? That means this advanced stage of periodontal disease impacts nearly 65 million Americans! While this condition can be detrimental to the health of your gums, it can also deteriorate the bone beneath them. Once it starts to break down, your teeth can begin to shift significantly. Fortunately, gum disease is largely preventable with a solid oral hygiene routine that includes consistent flossing!
If you notice small changes in your smile, then it is important to schedule an appointment with your dentist. From there, they can help determine the root of the issue and put a plan in place to prevent your teeth from continuing to shift!
About the Practice
For nearly four decades, 21st Century Dental & Sleep Center has delivered world-class dentistry through a comprehensive array of treatment options, modern amenities, high-quality service, and a genuine care for their patients. With their friendly staff at their side, Dr. Kent Smith, Dr. Jeff Roy, Dr. Ashley Bristow, and Dr. Andrew Barnett use their extensive experience and impressive clinical skill to deliver healthy, beautiful smiles. If you would like to speak with their team about straightening your teeth, visit their website or give them a call at 972-255-3712.