Why Do Teeth Shift Back After Braces?

April 28, 2024

You’ve invested time, effort, and money into straightening your teeth with braces, only to notice that they start shifting back after treatment.

Seeing your once perfectly aligned smile gradually revert to its original position can be frustrating and disheartening. But why does this happen?

It’s not uncommon for teeth to shift back after braces. Here’s why it happens and what you can do to maintain your newly straightened smile.

Mesial Drift

Despite straightening teeth with braces, there is a natural tendency for teeth to move over time. This is because the ligaments and tissues surrounding the teeth have a certain level of flexibility, allowing for minor shifts, especially with regular tooth wear. This process is referred to as mesial drift [1].

Even after your teeth have been moved to their correct positions and the braces removed, your teeth will continue to adjust gradually over time, which can ultimately affect your tooth alignment and bite.

Not Wearing Your Retainers

One of the critical factors contributing to teeth shifting back after braces is the lack of adequate retention [2]. After completing orthodontic treatment, orthodontists typically provide patients with retainers to help stabilize the teeth in their new position.

Most patients will need to wear their retainer 24/7 for the first nine months but then can taper off to nightly use. However, it is recommended to wear your retainer nightly, or at least a few times a week, for life.

However, some individuals may not wear their retainers as directed or stop wearing them altogether. This lack of retention allows teeth to gradually return to their original alignment.

This is called orthodontic relapse and is a common phenomenon.

Changing Facial Structure

Another reason why teeth may shift back after braces has to do with age and growth. As we age, our facial structure continues to change, and this can impact the positioning of the teeth.

Teeth crowding, gaps, and bite issues are common with age, which can ultimately affect how teeth shift after braces [3]. It’s essential to wear your retainers to keep your teeth in their correct positions and prevent these problems.

How to Prevent Teeth Shifting After Braces

So, what can be done to prevent or minimize teeth shifting after braces?

Wear your retainers. The most effective way to prevent teeth from shifting back after braces is to wear retainers as instructed by your orthodontist. Retainers hold your teeth in their new position, allowing the supporting tissues to adapt and stabilize.
Get regular check-ups. Schedule regular dental check-ups with your orthodontist or dentist. They can monitor any potential shifts and recommend appropriate treatment options to address minor relapse before it becomes more significant.
Maintain good oral hygiene. Brushing and flossing your teeth daily, along with regular dental cleanings, can help maintain optimal oral health. Healthy gums and strong supportive tissues are less likely to allow for teeth shifting.

Take Care of Your Straightened Teeth

Teeth shifting back after braces is a common occurrence, but it doesn’t have to be. You can minimize the risk of orthodontic relapse to maintain your beautifully straightened smile for life.

If you believe your teeth have shifted after braces, don’t hesitate to follow up with your dentist or orthodontist to explore treatment options and prevent the need for future orthodontic work.