There’s no doubt about it: braces are one of the best teeth-straightening treatments available. Not only are they incredibly safe and reliable, but they can also help patients who are struggling with everything from minor spacing issues to extreme overcrowding. Of course, only you can ensure your teeth remain in their perfectly aligned positions after your braces are removed. To learn the key to preventing orthodontic relapse, read on!
How Common Is Orthodontic Relapse?
In short, orthodontic relapse refers to when a patient’s teeth begin to shift back into their previous, misaligned positions. Although this isn’t a topic that is discussed very often, it’s quite common. According to some studies, more than 50% of patients experience some extent of orthodontic relapse within 10 years of getting their braces off. Naturally, this can be disappointing for several reasons, which is why it’s important to do what you can to prevent it.
Here’s the Key to Preventing Orthodontic Relapse
Preventing orthodontic relapse largely boils down to one important best practice: wearing your retainer. After your braces are removed, your teeth and gums still need some time to “set” into their new positions. For this reason, patients should wear their retainers as much as possible during the first six months or so. From there, consistently wearing it nightly is of the utmost importance. If your retainer breaks or it’s simply time for a replacement, then get in touch with your orthodontist right away.
How Is Orthodontic Relapse Treated?
If you’ve experienced orthodontic relapse, then the best course of action is to schedule a consultation with your orthodontist. During this visit, they’ll be able to assess the severity of your case, which will largely determine which treatment plan is necessary. For example, minor cases of orthodontic relapse may simply require you to wear your retainer more. More severe cases may necessitate re-treatment. Don’t worry – your treatment timeline will likely be much shorter and less extensive than the first time.
Remember, braces can guide your teeth into their perfectly aligned positions, but it’s ultimately up to you to keep them there. If you want to learn more about how to preserve your beautiful smile or you’ve experienced orthodontic relapse, then get in touch with your orthodontist!
About the Practice
Our team at Simply Orthodontics Worcester doesn’t just want to help you achieve a perfect smile; we want to help you preserve it for decades to come! We’re proud to offer our patients both fixed and removable retainers, both of which are custom-made to avoid orthodontic relapse in the future. If you have a question about how to prevent orthodontic relapse, you need a new retainer, or you’d simply like to schedule an appointment, then don’t hesitate to visit our website or call (508) 757-3173.