After you finish orthodontic treatment, you might be excited about showing off your results. You worked hard to get a straighter smile, so you deserve to feel your best in it. However, have you noticed your teeth aren’t as straight as they once were? You might wonder whether your old retainer can re-straighten your grin, but this may not be the best idea. Here’s what you should know.
Why Are Your Teeth Shifting?
Teeth can move for a wide range of reasons. Teeth grinding or clenching, natural aging, and gum disease are a few culprits. But if you finished with braces or clear aligners, then orthodontic relapse can be to blame.
This is the tendency of a smile to shift back toward its original position after finishing treatment. Your retainer helps stop it and allows your jawbone to re-harden around the roots, but if you don’t wear it, then you may experience this. In fact, this is why this oral appliance can feel tight.
So, Can Your Old Retainer Re-Straighten Teeth?
You might imagine your old retainer can re-straighten your teeth, especially since it looks like a clear aligner, but this isn’t true. This oral appliance is only designed to hold your smile in place. Wearing it when it’s uncomfortable can damage your grin or adjust your bite and throw it off. This can lead to more trouble down the line, such as jaw pain.
What Should You Do to Get Back a Straight Smile?
The best way to align your smile is by talking to your orthodontist. They will do an oral examination to see what movements are necessary to give you the results you miss. In some cases, you may need another retainer if your bite hasn’t shifted too much, but another round of orthodontics may be recommended. The good news is that many people who need braces or clear aligners for a second time usually have a much shorter timeline. So, you’ll be well on your way back to a healthier bite in no time.
About the Author
Dr. Megan Hanson earned her dental degree from The University of Texas School of Dentistry and finished her orthodontic residency in Houston. She is dedicated to helping patients in Allen correct their misalignments and malocclusions with braces or clear aligners. Dr. Hanson will stay by your side during treatment to help you avoid delays and give you the tips you need to maintain your results. If you believe you need another round of orthodontics, schedule an appointment or call her office at 972-727-1153.