Can My Teeth Relapse After Wearing Braces?
If you have just finished orthodontic treatment with braces, tooth relapse is the last thing on your mind. Tooth relapse is when your teeth shift back to their original position after being aligned with orthodontia. Fortunately, there are ways to prevent relapse.
Why Do Teeth Relapse?
Here are a few reasons why your teeth shift back after braces:
Teeth are not fully fixed in their new position yet
Improper retainer wear
Teeth grinding
Genetics
Aging
How Braces Work
Braces work by putting a constant force on your teeth. Bone is broken down where force is being applied, while new bone is built in the direction the tooth is moving. New bone is not as strong or hard as the older bone, which means teeth tend to move back after braces and constant pressure is removed. This is especially common in the first year after braces are removed.
How to Prevent Relapse
One way to prevent tooth relapse is to keep your braces on for an extra month once your teeth have reached their final position. This allows your teeth to become more fixed in their new alignment. Ask your orthodontist about trying this method before removing your braces.
The most effective way to prevent relapse is to wear your new retainer exactly the way instructed by your orthodontist. Often, you will be told to wear it 24/7 for a few weeks after removal (except when eating and brushing your teeth). After this, you will probably be instructed to wear it just at night while sleeping.
To learn more about tooth relapse after braces, call or visit us at Oasis Kids and Orthodontics!