I’m wearing my retainer, but my teeth are moving, help!

Irvine, CA – It is an exciting moment when you have your braces taken off and see your smile for the first time. You share the news with family and friends, pictures are taken, you’re immediately more confident, and we hand you your new retainers to wear. However, a few weeks later after wearing your retainers as recommended, you notice that your teeth are slightly moving. Dr. Updike discusses why this may happen and what you can do to prevent any further movement in the teeth.

It is normal for your teeth to “settle” once the braces have been taken off. A thick wire, rubber bands, and brackets are no longer holding them together. Your teeth are simply adjusting and settling into a natural position, and are not noticeable to those around you. However, you may feel a difference when you are wearing your retainer. Some other factors that may change the alignment of your teeth are DNA (if you are still growing), habits such as clenching your teeth, or where you place your tongue. Sometimes, even pregnancy could cause your teeth to shift as well! These factors are usually out of our control, so learning how to minimize the amount of movement that is within our control is crucial.

Each patient’s case is unique, but the underlying message to preserve your beautiful smile is to always wear your retainer as instructed. As we mentioned in a previous blog post, your braces journey may have ended, but wearing your retainer is a lifelong commitment.

If you are experiencing some tightness when wearing your retainer or movement of your teeth, please give our office a call and our friendly staff will assist you.