Can Stress Cause Your Teeth to Move?

So, can stress or anxiety cause your teeth to shift or move?

Surprisingly, the answer is YES!

Sometimes stress and anxiety can cause a parafunctional habit called bruxism, which is the regular grinding and clenching of teeth. The subsequent pressure on them could cause them to chip, loosen and over time, even alter their position.

If dental health becomes severely compromised, you may suffer from tooth loss. If you have missing teeth, the teeth behind them can start to shift into their position, usually towards the midline of your body. Another issue that may occur is super-eruption. The tooth that opposes the site of the missing tooth may start to grow out from its position because it no longer has the opposing tooth to resist it. You may experience sensitivity and other issues around this super-erupted tooth. This can really eventually affect the appearance and health of your entire smile.

If you are concerned that stress or anxiety are causing your teeth to move, contact us for reassurance and advice!