Bonding After Teeth Shift?

Question

My problem (the reason why I needed braces) is that my teeth were spaced out (with obvious gaps) Now my teeth are straight, but a retainer is such a pain and I worry I might lose it and my teeth will shift back.. Can I technically have my teeth shift back (to its original gappiness) and then get them bonded for a hassle-free result? Or is it more complicated than that?

Lance Timmerman, DMD, MAGD · Answer

It is common that people dislike wearing retainers, and without them the teeth likely WILL get gaps again.  Perhaps not as bad as originally, so the solution might be simple.  Many smile makeovers with porcelain veneers are done specifically to close spaces, but careful planning is needed to be sure the results do not look out of proportion.

Ronald Konig DDS · Answer

The real question is why your teeth are shifting? TMJ issues, tongue thrust? airway problems?  sleep apnea? This tells me that your bite or something is not stable.  Before making any decisions seek several consultations with qualified dentists.

Martin Frankel, DDS · Answer

There is usually more than one option for dental treatments.  It sounds like you are wearing removable retainers.  Did you know that you can also have fixed bonded retainers.  They take a bit more effort to keep clean, but you don't have to think about putting them in at night, and you don't have to worry about losing them.  This can be a very good option for a lot of people.

	Bonding is another good option for straightening teeth, closing gaps etc.  The one thing that you should know about dental bonding is that it doesn't last forever.  Depending on your age, your diet, your habits (do you grind or clench your teeth?) and many factors you will probably have to replace or repair some or all of your restorations during your lifetime.

	You have to weigh the pros and cons of various options and do what will work best for you.  Speak with your dentist and learn all the pros and cons so that you can make an informed decision.

Zina Kaleinikova, DDS, MS · Answer

If you do not wear retainer after your orthodontic treatment, you are in a high risk for movemet of the teeth and ending up with some missalignments. I want to warn you  that it's hard to predict where your teeth will end up shifting, maybe to the previos spaces but maybe not. If you are experiencing such a difficulty with your retainer, and about to give it up, obtain consultation with a restorative specialist (prosthodontist) to discuss all the possible scenarios. Good luck!

Paul D. Kantor, DDS · Answer

It's not uncommon for the teeth to shift back when someone stops wearing a retainer, and what you suggest probably will work. Bonding will discolor and wear out over time though, so it could get expensive to redo over and over. You have already done the hard part and had braces, so I'd suggest talking to your orthodontist about options for fixed retainers. You're much better off long term keeping your straight teeth than having bonding.

Bonding After Teeth Shift?

Answers (8)

Answer: Movement of the teeth after the orthodontic treatment

Answer: Movement of the teeth after the orthodontic treatment

Answer: Teeth shift back when stop wearing a retainer

Answer: Teeth shift back when stop wearing a retainer

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Dental Bonding

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

Bonding After Teeth Shift?

Answers (8)

Answer: Movement of the teeth after the orthodontic treatment

Answer: Movement of the teeth after the orthodontic treatment

Answer: Teeth shift back when stop wearing a retainer

Answer: Teeth shift back when stop wearing a retainer

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Dental Bonding

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.