I already had braces, never got into the habit of wearing a retainer so now my teeth shifted and I'm having a hard time. (Photo)

Question

My teeth used to be crooked. I had to get braces around the 7th grade. I got them off 11th grade. Even with straight teeth, I still hated my teeth and the way they looked. I gave up on it. I couldn't get into the habit of wearing the retainer. My teeth shifted. It's not as bad as it was prior braces, but it's bad. I've managed to get my teeth to shift back enough to slip past the check-ups I have with my orthodonist, but I'm tired. I would hate to wear braces again. Is there any option for me?

Brad Lockhart, DDS · Answer

Substantial relapse following orthodontic treatment can be addressed using clear aligner therapy (like Invisalign). Clear aligners are comfortable and virtually invisible and were designed to treat orthodontic relapse. If you do nothing, the relapse will continue to get worse. I would recommend either restraightening your teeth with clear aligners or perhaps investing in new retainers to prevent further relapse.Good luck!

Pamela Steiger, DMD · Answer

Our teeth have a natural tendency to move over time, even after braces. Retainers are designed to keep your teeth in the desired final position after braces.If you are unhappy with the position of your teeth at this time and they are continuing to move, you may need Orthodontic treatment again. Talk to your Orthodontist and make sure you explain what you are unhappy with now and exactly what bothered you when you got the braces off before if you weren't happy then either. Your options are most likely braces or Invisalign (or any clear aligner system). Good luck!

I already had braces, never got into the habit of wearing a retainer so now my teeth shifted and I'm having a hard time. (Photo)

Answers (2)