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Will Retainers Shift Teeth Back Into Place 6 Months After Braces? (photo)

asked 6 months ago by Leighkaay
Latest answer by Rob van den Berg, DDS, MS
Question viewed 1,349 times
Tags: 6 months post-op, retainer, shifting, wear

I got my braces off six months ago. My teeth shifted because I haven't worn my retainers ever since. If I wear them now, will my teeth go back to being straight?

4 answers to Will Retainers Shift Teeth Back Into Place 6 Months After Braces? (photo)

+1

Teeth shifting after not wearing retainers

Retainers typically keep your teeth straight when worn just at night. For active tooth movement like your case they should be worn full time. If your retainer still fits you can start wearing it and you should see improved alignment quickly. Let your doctor know you're back on board, I'm sure he/she would be happy to make any needed adjustments.
Rob van den Berg, DDS, MS

San Ramon Orthodontist
+1

Some Retainers Can Move Your Teeth a Bit

It really depends on what type of retainers you have, and how far your teeth have moved from their original position. If your retainers don't fit at all that isn't a good sign, but it sounds like you can put them back in. Either way I'd swing by whoever gave you the retainers and tell them what happened. They may be able to make some adjustments with them to get your teeth moved back where they need to be.
Scott Frey, DDS

Allentown Orthodontist
+1

Your retainer 6 mos after treatment

It is possible, especially if you have your original retainer from when your braces were removed. However as Dr Koutsoukos said "The retainer is not to move teeth, but to maintain them in the position they should stay in after braces. You need to go back and speak with your orthodontist and see what he says." so don;t forget to take your retainers with you when you go for your appointment. Don;t be embarrassed about going in, your not the first or the last to do this. more
Jacqueline Demko, DDS, MSD

Chesterfield Orthodontist
+1

Will wearing my retainer after my teeth shifted move them back?

A retainer is a custom made removable device that helps the teeth maintain their position after braces. You had your braces removed 6 months ago and have not worn any retainer and now your teeth have shifted back.The retainer is not to move teeth, but to maintain them in the position they should stay in after braces. You need to go back and speak with your orthodontist and see what he says. Do not put the retainer in now until you check with your Dr. first. It was made to retain your... more
George Koutsoukos, DDS

Valencia Cosmetic Dentist

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