If your child’s once-straight teeth are beginning to look crowded or crooked again, you’re not imagining it—teeth can and do shift over time. While this can be frustrating, it’s also fairly common and often treatable with the right orthodontic intervention.
Experiencing unexpected changes in bite or alignment is a normal part of growth. Understanding what causes these shifts can help you take proactive steps to protect your child’s smile.
Common Reasons Teeth Shift
1. Natural Growth and Development
Children’s mouths grow and change rapidly. As baby teeth fall out and permanent teeth emerge, the mouth may struggle to accommodate the new teeth without proper spacing. This can lead to crowding, gaps, or misalignment.
2. Thumb-Sucking and Oral Habits
Extended thumb-sucking beyond the age of 3-4, pacifier use, or tongue thrusting can place excess pressure on the teeth and jaws. Over time, this pressure can cause teeth to push forward or flare out of alignment.
3. Tooth Loss
When a baby tooth is lost prematurely due to injury or decay, neighboring teeth may begin to drift into the empty space. This can create complications for the eruption of permanent teeth and cause crowding or uneven spacing.
4. Lack of Retainer Use
After completing orthodontic treatment, retainers are essential for maintaining results. If your child forgets or stops wearing their retainer as directed, their teeth may slowly shift back to their original positions.
5. Jaw Growth or Bite Changes
As your child grows, their jawbone continues to develop. If the upper and lower jaws grow at different rates, it can affect how the teeth fit together—leading to overbite or underbite and shifting teeth.
How Can an Orthodontist Help?
The good news is that teeth shifting can often be corrected with orthodontic treatment. Smile-straightening solutions tailored to growing patients can realign your child’s teeth.
Braces
Traditional braces are a tried-and-true solution for correcting everything from crowding and gaps to bite issues and severe misalignment. They’re especially effective for children and teens whose jaws are still developing.
Invisalign®
For older children and teens who prefer a more discreet option, Invisalign clear aligners offer a comfortable, nearly invisible way to straighten teeth. These removable trays make brushing and eating easier while gradually moving teeth into alignment.
Excellent dental health starts early! Taking care of your child’s smile now sets the stage for ensuring future wellness.
About the Practice
At Main Street Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics of Danville, we’re passionate about helping young patients achieve healthy, confident smiles in a supportive, family-friendly environment. Our team brings together specialized training in both pediatric and orthodontic care to provide personalized treatment for every child. Whether they need braces, Invisalign, or preventive care, we’re here to guide their smile every step of the way.
Give us a call at (925) 575-8878 or request an appointment online.