No, you can’t, and trying to do so might damage your teeth, advises Vincent G. Kokich, a professor of orthodontics at the University of Washington School of Dentistry and an orthodontist in private practice in Tacoma, Wash. Tooth movement requires continuous and constant pressure -- that’s why your dentist recommends braces or aligners to straighten teeth.
When braces are continuously worn for a period of time, the bone around teeth responds to the pressure, allowing your teeth to move in the direction of the force. Intermittent pressure, such as that from a finger, however, will not stimulate the bone to respond and will not move the tooth. On the other hand, over time, it can even loosen it, increasing your risk of tooth loss!
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