Wondering why your teeth seem to be shifting back after braces treatment? Our orthodontists in Surrey share everything you need to know about orthodontic relapse and how to keep your smile straight.
What is orthodontic relapse?
Orthodontic relapse refers to the tendency of teeth to move back toward their original pre-treatment positions after braces or aligners have been removed.
This is mainly because the periodontal ligaments, which connect your teeth to the jaw bone, have what orthodontists call 'orthodontic memory', meaning they retain information about the teeth's previous positions and can exert gentle pressure to pull teeth back toward those original locations. This is why retention is such a critical phase of the orthodontic treatment process.
This doesn't mean your treatment failed or that your orthodontist made an error. Rather, it's a natural tendency that can be managed effectively with proper understanding and care.
Understanding why teeth relapse after braces or Invisalign is crucial for maintaining the results of your treatment and keeping your smile healthy and confident for years to come. At Guildford Orthodontic Centre, we prioritize comprehensive post-treatment care to help our patients prevent relapse and maintain their straight smiles long-term.
Primary Causes of Orthodontic Relapse
Along with natural movement, there are several other causes behind orthodontic relapse. They include:
Inconsistent Retainer Use
Retainers are specifically designed to hold teeth in their newly corrected positions while the surrounding tissues reform. When patients skip wearing their retainers or stop using them entirely, the risk of relapse increases significantly. The teeth lose the support system that keeps them in place, allowing natural forces to gradually shift them back toward their original positions.
Natural Aging Process
As we age, our facial structure undergoes continuous change. Bones, soft tissues, and even the supporting structures of our teeth evolve over time. These natural changes can affect tooth alignment, meaning that even patients who wear their retainers consistently may experience minor shifts as they get older. This is a normal part of the aging process and doesn't mean that your treatment didn't work.
Continued Jaw Development
Teenagers may experience growth spurts that continue even after orthodontic treatment is complete. Additionally, some adults experience late jaw growth or development that can affect their bite and overall alignment. These changes in jaw structure can influence how teeth fit together, potentially leading to shifting.
Teeth Grinding & Oral Habits
Habits such as clenching, grinding (bruxism), or tongue thrusting can exert pressure on teeth over time. This continuous pressure can cause teeth to shift from their corrected positions. Other habits like nail biting, chewing on pens, or using teeth as tools can also contribute to unwanted tooth movement.
Signs Your Teeth May Be Shifting
Recognizing the early signs of relapse after orthodontic treatment can help you address the issue before it becomes more serious. Look out for these signs:
- Your retainer feels tighter than usual when you put it in, which often indicates that your teeth have shifted slightly.
- You might struggle to insert your retainer or experience discomfort when wearing it.
- You may notice gaps reappearing between teeth or crowding returning in areas that were previously straightened.
- You might feel like your bite is different or that your teeth don't fit together as well as they used to.
Treatment Options for Orthodontic Relapse
If you begin to experience orthodontic relapse, there are a few treatment options to help you reverse it and prevent further shifting. They include:
Wearing Retainers Again
If relapse is caught early, sometimes reintroducing consistent retainer wear or having your retainer adjusted can help guide teeth back into their proper positions. Your orthodontist may recommend wearing your retainer more frequently or for longer periods to address minor shifting.
Short-Term Retreatment
For mild to moderate relapse, short-term treatment with clear aligners or braces can often correct the shifting. This type of treatment is usually shorter than standard orthodontic treatment and targets specifically the areas that have shifted.
Comprehensive Orthodontic Treatment
When relapse is significant, a full course of orthodontic treatment might be needed. This method resembles the original treatment but could take less time since the teeth have already been moved before, and the supporting structures retain some memory of the corrected positions.
Other Interventions
Fixed retainers, which are thin wires bonded to the back of teeth, can provide long-term stability for patients who are prone to relapse. These permanent retainers work continuously to maintain alignment and are especially useful for lower front teeth, which are most susceptible to shifting.
How to Prevent Orthodontic Relapse
Prevention is always better than treatment when it comes to orthodontic relapse. Consistent retainer use is the key to preventing relapse. Follow your orthodontist's advice on how often and how long to wear your retainer. Many orthodontists recommend lifelong retainer use, even if it's just a few nights each week.
Regular check-ups allow your orthodontist to monitor your tooth alignment and catch any shifting early. These appointments also offer opportunities to evaluate your retainer's fit and condition. Keep good oral hygiene and address dental problems quickly, as cavities, gum disease, and other oral health issues can compromise the stability of your teeth and lead to shifting.
Avoid habits that may put pressure on your teeth, such as nail biting, chewing on pens, or using your teeth to open packages. If you grind your teeth, talk to your orthodontist about protective options.
Committing to Your Smile
Orthodontic relapse is a common and manageable issue that many patients encounter after finishing treatment. The important thing to understand is that some level of shifting is normal and can be effectively managed with proper care and attention. By following your orthodontist's advice about retainer use and attending regular check-ups, you can help ensure your straight smile lasts.
At Guildford Orthodontic Centre, our team is dedicated to supporting you throughout your entire orthodontic journey, including the critical retention phase that keeps your smile straight for life.