Teeth move over time, even after orthodontic treatment.

Although you may not always notice it, your teeth do move and shift throughout the course of your life. This movement occurs as a result of various factors, including changes in the shape of your jaw as you age, pressures caused by activities like eating and talking, and issues like gum disease and teeth grinding. The teeth can also shift back into their natural positions after orthodontic treatment has been completed. Read on to find out more about why teeth move over time, and what you can do to minimise the extent to which they shift…

Why do teeth shift after orthodontic treatment?

When you undergo an orthodontic treatment, such as the use of braces or clear aligners, your teeth are gradually moved into new positions because of pressure that is constantly exerted. Once your braces are removed or you no longer wear your aligners, your teeth may begin to move back into their natural positions. This is completely normal, but the extent of the movement varies from person to person. Generally, individuals who suffer from gum disease and loss of jaw bone experience more teeth shifting than those with healthy gums and jawbone. Bone loss tends to make it more difficult for the teeth to stay in place once braces have been removed.

Can you stop your teeth from shifting?

There are a number of ways in which you can prevent your teeth from shifting after your orthodontic treatment is complete. Your orthodontist may recommend that you wear a retainer after you have had your braces removed. It is important that you adhere to your orthodontist’s instructions and advice, as this will help to keep your teeth straight following treatment.

Both removable and fixed retainers are effective in keeping teeth in their new positions. While removeable retainers may only need to be worn at night or for a certain amount of time each day, fixed retainers are attached to the teeth.

Besides wearing your retainers according to your orthodontist’s instructions, it is also important that you take care of your oral health in order to prevent tooth movement. Proper oral hygiene includes brushing your teeth at least twice a day, flossing daily and visiting your dentist for regular check-ups and cleans.

How can we help?

At Straight Orthodontics, we offer a range of orthodontic treatments, including retainers designed to maintain the results of braces and clear aligners. We offer permanent lingual retainers, which involve a wire that is glued to the inner side of the lower teeth and works to prevent shifting. We also offer two types of removeable retainers: Hawley and Essix retainers. The Hawley retainer is made from plastic and fits over the entire arch of the teeth without the need for wires. Essix retainers, on the other hand, are made from acrylic and metal wires, and are completely custom-made.

To find out more about the retainers that we offer at Straight Orthodontics, please have a look here.

If you would like to make an appointment to see us, please don’t hesitate to get in touch or give us a call on 03 9585 8000. We offer a comprehensive range of orthodontic treatments, including conventional braces, ceramic braces, Invisalign, Teen Invisalign and Spark clear aligners. For a full list of the treatments that we offer, please have a look here. We look forward to helping you achieve a healthy, straight smile.