Do Teeth Move Over Time?

• Arch Contraction: As we age, the dental arch narrows, particularly in the lower front teeth. This process, called “arch contraction,” is the most frequent observation we see at FIRST Ortho.
• FIRST Ortho Solution: Bonded or plastic retainers help counteract this narrowing and maintain alignment

• Bone Loss: Over time, gum disease and recession can reduce bone height, weakening the support for teeth.
• Genetic Predispositions: Certain racial groups are more susceptible to periodontal disease and bone loss due to immune responses.
• Did You Know? While aging can reduce bone density, research is still exploring its direct role in tooth movement.

• Uneven Pressure: Grinding places excessive strain on teeth, causing them to shift, especially when paired with reduced bone support.
• FIRST Ortho Solution: Early detection and the use of retainers or night guards can minimize this effect.

• Crowding: Erupting or impacted wisdom teeth can push second molars out of position.
• Fact: Contrary to popular belief, wisdom teeth have minimal impact on front teeth movement—arch contraction is a bigger culprit here.

• Elastic Collagen Fibers: After orthodontic treatment, the fibers holding your teeth can pull them back to their original positions if retainers aren’t worn consistently.
• Pro Tip: Retainers are crucial for maintaining results, especially for rotated or widely spaced teeth.

• Drifting Teeth: When a tooth is lost, neighboring or opposing teeth can drift into the gap, disrupting alignment.
• Solution: Restorative treatments, such as dental implants, preserve arch integrity and prevent unwanted movement.

• Aging Lips and Tongue: As collagen in the lips reduces with age, the balance between lips, tongue, and teeth changes. This can cause upper incisors to drift.
• Hormonal Factors: Pregnancy-related hormonal shifts can loosen the collagen that supports teeth, leading to movement.

• While gum recession alone has minimal influence on tooth movement, it often accompanies other factors like bone loss, making teeth more prone to shifting.
• FIRST Ortho Solution: Find out more about gum recession here

• Underlying Conditions: Rare issues like cysts, tumours, autoimmune diseases, or diabetes can also cause tooth movement. At FIRST Ortho, we specialize in diagnosing and managing these cases comprehensively.

• Wear Your Retainers: Long-term retainer use helps prevent relapse.
• Address Teeth Grinding: A night guard can protect your teeth from uneven pressure.
• Regular Check-Ups: Routine dental and orthodontic visits can catch issues early.
• Restore Missing Teeth: Replacing missing teeth ensures balance and prevents drifting.

If you’ve noticed your teeth shifting or want to ensure your smile stays perfectly aligned, we’re here to help. Our expert team at FIRST Ortho can assess your concerns and create a personalized treatment plan.

Contact Us or Book a Consultation today to take the first step toward maintaining your smile for years to come!