teeth drifting

[James K]

Im 40 years old and in past few months I have noticed that my front teeth seem to be drifting so much so that I now have spaces between my front teeth. Please could you let me know what is going on. I only see the dentist when I am in pain but know for sure, I will have to stop my teeth from moving because its looking very embarrassing now. My friend suggested having these teeth removed and having a plate made but I think I am far too young for a plate. Please advise if anything can be done to stop these teeth from moving anymore and is there a way of moving these teeth back to where they were originally.

[Dr Ehsan J. Esfahani]

Hello James,

Teeth move or drift throughout life and there are many reasons why this can happen. Periodontal (gum) disease results in loss of the bone supporting the teeth and this is one of the main causes of drifting teeth. Orthodontic relapse or loss of the adjacent or opposing teeth can also lead to drifting teeth. Following an assessment we can discuss the cause of the drifting teeth and spaces forming. Orthodontic treatment with invisalign clear braces can move your front teeth back to there original position. The next step to take is to book a check-up with your dentist.