Why are my upper and lower left premolar moving? Appreciate all answers! Thank you. (Photos)

Question

I had braces around 7 to 8 years ago. I am 23 years old now. I had partially impacted lower 3rd molars and recurrent pericoronitis so I had them extracted.Prior the extraction, I noticed my lower left second premolar had shifted lingually.My orthodontist also suggested there might be movement because of the lower thirds. However, now that they're out I'm waiting for the tooth to go back to position.However just yesterday I noticed that my upper left premolar has also shifted lingually a little.

Vicki Borowski, DDS · Answer

You don't mention if you are wearing your retainer nightly. If you are no longer wearing a retainer your teeth may continue to shift. I suggest having a new retainer made if you don't have one. If you have one wear it!

Kourosh Maddahi, DDS · Answer

Hi:In most cases once the teeth move due to wisdom teeth eruption, the teeth do not go back to the original place.  You might need orthodontic treatment again to align the teeth.Best,Dr. Maddahi

Charles Briscoe, DDS · Answer

Thanks for the collections of images!It is good that the third molars have been removed. Now, you need to get back into orthodontics, either Invisalign, which should work, or traditional braces. Assuming your orthodontist also treats adults, have him or her start the case. It should not take real long. The teeth will continue to move in the wrong direction. They won't go back to their original position on their own, even though the thirds have been removed - life should be so simple!Then, you are into a lifetime of retainers, which you now know are essential.

Why are my upper and lower left premolar moving? Appreciate all answers! Thank you. (Photos)

Answers (3)