Why are my teeth shifting after braces? Dr. Updike, an Orange County orthodontist, answers a question commonly asked by patients after their orthodontic treatment, and how to prevent it from happening or getting worse.
Most Common Causes
Aging
There are many reasons why your teeth shift after braces. One main factor is aging. As we age, our teeth are prone to shifting because our bones continue to grow resulting in the lower jaw to grow forward and narrow. For some, it may be the slightest change, for others it could be more of a dramatic change in the teeth placement and overall bite.
Periodontal Disease
Periodontal disease is when the gums become so inflamed and damaged that it eventually destroys the bones supporting your teeth. This could lead to your teeth shifting, or even falling out. We highly recommend maintaining your oral health to prevent gum diseases.
Teeth Memory
Believe it or not, your teeth have memory and may want to move back to its old position, even after completing orthodontic treatment. To prevent this, wearing your retainer as instructed is the best option.
Teeth Grinding
Grinding or clenching your teeth could have long term effects, such as your teeth shifting. Grinding typically puts too much pressure on your teeth leading them to shift overtime.
How To Prevent Your Teeth from Moving
To prevent your teeth from shifting after treatment, we recommend wearing your retainer every day to maintain the bite and teeth position. A common myth is that after a while your teeth will stay in place, but that is not the case. Wearing retainers is a lifelong commitment. If your retainers begin to feel tight, we recommend contacting your orthodontist for a new fitting. The second best way to maintain your teeth is brushing and flossing twice a day. This will ensure you are maintaining healthy gums and enamel.
If you have any additional questions regarding orthodontic treatment, or being fitted for a new retainer, contact us at (949) 870-9713. Our friendly staff will be happy to assist you!
Experiencing discomfort with your retainer? Here’s a look at why this may be happening and…
Should you floss or brush your teeth first? Oral hygiene is especially important during orthodontic…
A common question we receive is “how do wisdom teeth affect braces”? Dr. Updike, an…
Happy New Year from our team at Updike Orthodontics! Dr. Updike, an Irvine orthodontist, shares…
It’s always a moment of excitement and relief when you have completed your orthodontic treatment.…
Many people believe once they get their braces off, it’s the end of their orthodontic…