Yes, teeth can and often do move after an extraction. The extraction disrupts the balance in your mouth, causing adjacent teeth to shift.
How Teeth Shift After Extraction
When a tooth is removed, the surrounding teeth no longer have support on all sides. This leads to movement as the teeth try to compensate for the new gap. According to provided information, the teeth adjacent to the empty space gradually shift towards it, attempting to close the gap left by the missing tooth. This movement can occur both horizontally and vertically.
Types of Tooth Movement
- Horizontal Movement: Teeth on either side of the extraction site lean or drift into the space.
- Vertical Movement: Teeth in the opposing arch (either upper or lower) may over-erupt or drift down/up into the gap if there is no tooth to bite against.
Why This Happens
The teeth are held in place by a complex system of ligaments and bone. When a tooth is extracted, this balance is disrupted, causing other teeth to shift into the newly available space.
Consequences of Tooth Movement
Tooth movement after extraction can lead to several issues:
- Misalignment: Shifting teeth can cause your bite to become misaligned.
- Difficulty Cleaning: Crowded or tilted teeth are harder to clean, increasing the risk of cavities and gum disease.
- TMJ Problems: Changes in your bite can contribute to temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders.
- Aesthetic Concerns: Gaps and misaligned teeth can affect your smile.
Preventing Tooth Movement
The best way to prevent tooth movement after an extraction is to replace the missing tooth with a dental implant, bridge, or partial denture. These replacements provide support to the adjacent teeth and maintain proper alignment.
