Retaining your smile: why do teeth relapse after braces

Relapse won’t happen overnight: but if you do not wear your retainer your teeth will eventually relapse

This is the third and final retaining your smile blog. In this blog we will look at what to do if you have, for whatever reason, stopped wearing your retainer.

What to do if you haven’t worn your retainer in a few years

So, for whatever reason you haven’t worn your retainers for years. And you’ve noticed your teeth are no longer as straight as they were. Orthosmile Orthodontics can help. At one of our four dental practices, our friendly team can assess your oral health and determine which the best orthodontic treatment is. Depending on the length of time you don’t wear your retainer for, will dictate the kind of treatment you will need.

We have had patients complain about needing to wear retainers. But better to wear a retainer than relapse. Cheaper too.  Much cheaper.

So, you’ve stopped wearing your retainer

There is only one reason why a person should stop wearing their retainer: they don’t want their teeth to be straight anymore. Not that that makes sense. Who doesn’t want straight teeth?

Straight teeth are healthier for your smile. Straight teeth are easier to clean reducing the risk of bacteria, decay and gum disease. And straight teeth look good.

If it’s simply a case of having lost your retainer, contact us right away to have a new one made. That’s no problem. In fact, that is probably the best solution. If you leave it too long you will eventually need another course of treatment.

The best thing to do is call Orthosmile Orthodontics and organise a new retainer. It’s quicker, cheaper and better for you than letting your teeth relapse.

Why do teeth relapse after braces?

Teeth are not set in concrete.

When you think about it, the orthodontic treatment is gently shifting teeth into a healthier, more desirable position. This is generally done with brackets and wires designed to shift your teeth into the optimal position.

When those brackets have done their job, your orthodontist provides you with a retainer to ensure your teeth stay in their new position. After orthodontic treatment your teeth will be a little mobile while the bone stabilises around the tooth root.

However, because our bodies are constantly changing your teeth can shift throughout your life. By wearing your retainer as often as is prescribed you help keep your teeth straight for longer. In most cases – as we’ve already mentioned – you’ll need to wear your retainer for life.

If you’ve stopped wearing your retainer and have noticed your teeth reverting to their pre-treated state, please call Orthosmile Orthodontics today.