Why Do Teeth Become Crooked With Age?

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Many people notice changes as we age. Among them a loss of height, hair and strength. We all assume that once we have straight teeth – especially after wearing braces in our younger years, or in my case, my adult years – our smile will remain unchanged. However, as we age, subtle (or sometimes not-so-subtle) shifts can occur, especially in the lower teeth. If you’ve noticed your bottom teeth becoming more crooked or misaligned over time, you’re not alone.

After talking to similarly aged friends, I realized that I wasn’t the only one experiencing this change. Some had noticed that their lower teeth had started shifting in recent years, even though they had once been perfectly straight. This raised an important question: Why do teeth move as we age?

Why Teeth Shift Over Time

It turns out that it’s quite common for teeth to “shift and drift” as we get older. While not everyone will experience this, several factors can contribute to these gradual changes:

1. Loss of a Tooth – When a tooth is missing, the surrounding teeth may start to move into the open space, leading to crowding or misalignment.
2. Gum Disease – This condition can weaken the bone and tissues that support the teeth, making them more unstable and prone to movement.
3. Grinding and Wear – Years of clenching or grinding can cause teeth to wear down unevenly, changing their alignment.

Interestingly, this shifting tends to happen more often in the lower teeth than in the upper teeth. The lower jaw is smaller, and as we age, the pressure from chewing and natural bone changes can contribute to crowding.

Can You Prevent Teeth from Moving?

While some shifting is natural, there are steps you can take to maintain your smile:

• Wear a Retainer – If you had braces, wearing a retainer—even occasionally—can help keep teeth in place.
• Address Tooth Loss – If you’re missing a tooth, consider options like implants or bridges to prevent neighboring teeth from moving.
• Manage Gum Health – Regular dental check-ups and good oral hygiene can help prevent gum disease, reducing the risk of shifting.
• Protect Against Grinding – If you grind your teeth at night, a mouthguard can help prevent excessive wear and misalignment.

Embracing the Changes

Some degree of shifting may be unavoidable, but it doesn’t necessarily mean you need treatment. If your teeth still function well and you’re comfortable with how they look, a little movement may not be a problem. However, if changes in alignment cause discomfort or affect your bite, it may be worth discussing options with a dentist. I’m not sure I’m willing to go back to braces at my age but at least I’ll know I’m not seeing things when I look at my smile in the mirror.

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