Shifting Will Happen

Shifting is a normal part of the process when you get your braces removed. Your teeth have been held firmly into place by the braces for some time now, so the removal of these sturdy brackets and wires will lead to a bit of shifting. Your teeth will be settling into their positions now that the braces are gone, and this is just what should happen. During this time, it’s absolutely essential that you wear your retainer. This will prevent too much shifting and keep the teeth in their correct positions while the settling process is happening.

Wear Your Retainer

Your retainer was specially fitted for your unique mouth. The retainer is a crucial part of your treatment, and perhaps the most important—it will keep your newly adjusted smile looking just as it did when the braces were on. The retainer will help keep your teeth in place to prevent any abnormal shifting. Your orthodontist may have informed you that you’ll need to wear your retainer every night for the rest of your life. This is because teeth can shift naturally over time, and you’ll need your retainer as a gentle reminded to tell your teeth where they belong.

What to Look Out For

If you neglect to wear your retainer even for a few nights—especially soon after your braces come off—your teeth could shift to the point that the retainer no longer fits. At this point, you’ll need to go back to your orthodontist to see if he or she can fit your mouth with another retainer or if you need additional treatment.

Your retainer should be comfortable and fit your mouth appropriately. Your orthodontist should check that it fits well before you leave the office with your new smile. If for any reason your retainer doesn’t fit well or feel right, talk to your orthodontist about getting an adjustment.

If you’ve having major shifting after your braces come off, this isn’t normal and is a cause for concern. Your orthodontist can help you figure out what’s going on and correct the problem. Your teeth will naturally settle with the help of your retainer, but always be sure to look out for abnormal shifting or problems with your retainer.

Keeping your teeth beautiful and straight after the braces come off is easy when you follow your orthodontist’s instructions. Teeth shifting after braces is normal, but the shifting should be minor and you should still be able to comfortably wear your retainer. Talk to your orthodontist if you’re having any issues—don’t wait!

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Invisalign may sometimes be called clear braces, but the aligners are not braces and actually work much differently. Invisalign aligners are trays that are custom fit over your teeth and are completely clear, making it very hard for anyone to know you are wearing them unless they are very close. Invisalign trays are removable, and you take them out when you eat and when you brush your teeth. This means you no longer have to worry about sticky gum and foods sticking to your braces and wreaking havoc! The trays themselves are cleaned separately, and about every two weeks during your treatment you get a new set.

With all of the benefits of Invisalign, you may wonder if they work as well as braces at straightening the teeth. In most cases, the answer is yes. Braces are still best for cases of severe bite problems or when teeth need to be rotated or moved vertically, but for most people who need horizontal movement of their teeth to straighten them, Invisalign is a great option. Invisalign is ideal for adults who are hesitant to wear metal braces. Invisalign Teen is specifically designed for teenagers. Young people who have most of their permanent teeth can get Invisalign.

While treatment with braces can take years, Invisalign straightens your teeth in about a year or even less! Invisalign does require consistency on your part. You should wear them as much as possible, including while you are sleeping for maximum results. They must be removed for cleaning, brushing your teeth, and for eating, but they should be worn at all other times. The more you wear your aligners, the better they will work and the sooner you can finish treatment and have beautiful, straight teeth and smile!

If you would like to learn more about Invisalign aligners, how they work and if they are right for you, the first step is to call for a consultation appointment with the professionals at DC Dental Spa today. If you thought traditional metal braces were your only option for straighter teeth, you may be in for a pleasant surprise with Invisalign!

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