Have you noticed that one of your teeth is starting to overlap the one next to it, that new gaps are appearing, or that your bite isn’t the same as it used to be? These changes can occur even if you had straight teeth when you were younger or wore braces.
Teeth can become misaligned in adulthood for several reasons: gradual changes in the dental arches, relapse after orthodontic treatment, tooth loss, or damage to the supporting tissues. Identifying the cause is the first step before choosing a treatment.
Why do teeth shift position as we age?
Teeth are not rigidly anchored in the bone. They are supported by the periodontal ligament, a tissue that allows them to adapt to the forces exerted on them.
Over the course of a person’s life, the position of the teeth and the shape of the dental arches can change. Sometimes these changes occur gradually and become noticeable as the lower incisors become crowded: the front teeth on the lower arch begin to rotate or overlap.
However, not every shift can be attributed to age. Newly formed spaces, tooth mobility, or rapid changes in the bite require a dental evaluation.
Why Do Adults’ Teeth Become Crooked? The Main Causes
Why do adults’ teeth become crooked after wearing braces?
Teeth can shift even after orthodontic treatment is complete. The risk increases if retainers are not worn as recommended or if a fixed retainer comes loose.
Retainers may include removable mouthpieces or a wire attached to the inner surface of the teeth. Their purpose is to maintain the results achieved, and regular checkups remain important.
Periodontal Disease
Periodontitis, commonly known as “periodontal disease,” affects the tissues and bone that support the teeth. Loss of this support can be accompanied by tooth mobility and changes in tooth position.
Bleeding gums, gum recession, new gaps between teeth, or the sensation that a tooth is loose are all reasons to schedule a consultation. In such cases, an assessment of periodontal health must be performed before an orthodontic treatment plan is selected.
Loss of one or more teeth
After losing a tooth, the adjacent teeth may tilt toward the empty space. The tooth on the opposite arch may also shift if it no longer makes contact with an opposing tooth.
These changes can affect the bite and the space available for a future restoration. Therefore, replacing missing teeth should be discussed as part of a treatment plan.
Bruxism and Dental Overload
Teeth grinding or clenching can cause wear and strain. The dentist evaluates these symptoms along with the bite and the condition of the supporting tissues.
Bruxism does not automatically explain every change in alignment and does not replace an investigation into other causes.
Wisdom Teeth
Wisdom teeth are often blamed for crowding the front teeth. However, the available evidence does not support the assumption that they are the cause in every case or that their extraction will prevent crowding.
The decision to extract a tooth is based on clinical evaluation and the problems identified, not just on the desire to keep the teeth straight.
When is a consultation recommended?
Schedule an evaluation if you notice:
- teeth that overlap or gradually rotate;
- new gaps between the teeth;
- changes in bite;
- bleeding or receding gums;
- dental mobility;
- a retainer that no longer fits.
If the change occurs quickly or is accompanied by pain or limited mobility, do not delay your appointment.
Can you get your teeth straightened at age 40 or 50?
Yes, orthodontic treatment is possible even as an adult. Age isn’t the only factor: the health of your teeth and gums, bone support, your bite, and any existing dental work also matter.
Active periodontitis must be brought under control before orthodontic treatment begins. For some people, treatment requires collaboration between the orthodontist, the periodontist, and the dentist performing the dental restorations.
Fixed braces or clear aligners?
The choice is made after an examination and the determination of treatment goals.
Fixed braces may be recommended for various alignment and bite problems. The dentist explains the appropriate options and hygiene requirements.
Clear aligners, such as SPARK, may be an option for cases selected by the orthodontist. They are custom-made trays that gradually move the teeth. Since they are removable, they are taken out for meals and oral hygiene.
The outcome of aligner treatment depends, among other things, on adherence to the wear schedule. No single type of aligner is automatically suitable for all cases.
You can learn more about orthodontic treatment at EXCEDENT.
How do you maintain the results?
After treatment, a retainer helps maintain the position of the teeth. The dentist determines the appropriate retainer, the schedule for wearing it, and the necessary follow-up visits.
Daily oral hygiene and monitoring the health of your gums remain important. If a retainer comes loose or a mouthguard no longer fits, ask for a checkup.
Orthodontic Evaluation at EXCEDENT
Teeth that shift position may require more than just realignment. Sometimes periodontal disease must be treated, the replacement of missing teeth must be considered, or the bite must be corrected.
At EXCEDENT, orthodontic evaluation can be integrated into a multidisciplinary treatment plan tailored to each patient’s specific situation.
Have you noticed that your teeth have started to become crooked? Schedule a consultation at EXCEDENT to find out the cause and explore your treatment options.
Elena Iatagan
Orthodontist
EXCEDENT Clinic
