Protecting Your Investment in a Stunning Smile
Orthodontic relapse occurs when teeth revert to their original position. This relapse erases the results achieved by our Brickell, FL, orthodontist, and puts your teeth at risk of decay, gum disease, and accelerated wear.
Dr. Stephen Grussmark knows orthodontic treatments are a financial and time investment. If you’d like to see your straightened smile last well into the future, look out for critical contributors to braces relapse, and don’t forget to call 786-563-4973 to schedule an appointment.
What Is Orthodontic Relapse?
Orthodontic relapse occurs when teeth previously straightened through orthodontic treatment, gradually shift back toward their original, misaligned positions. This can lead to a deterioration in the appearance of your smile and pose potential risks to your oral health.
What Causes Orthodontic Relapse?
Several factors can contribute to orthodontic relapse, including:
- Age: As we grow older, natural wear and tear on our teeth can affect the alignment. Enamel wears away, making the teeth susceptible to shifting, even if they were previously corrected with orthodontic treatment.
- Lost Teeth: Gaps created by missing teeth can lead neighboring teeth to migrate into the spaces, reversing the results achieved through braces and increasing the risk of cavities and gum disease.
- Teeth Grinding: Bruxism (teeth grinding) can accelerate enamel wear and push the teeth out of proper alignment, possibly leading to jaw discomfort.
- Continued Tooth Growth: The eruption of wisdom teeth, if not properly aligned, can disrupt the positioning of the previously corrected teeth, causing overcrowding and undoing the effects of earlier orthodontic treatments.
Signs of Orthodontic Relapse
Common signs of orthodontic relapse may include:
- Noticeable shifting of teeth from their corrected positions.
- A return of misaligned or crooked teeth.
- Gaps forming between previously aligned teeth.
- Changes in your bite or the way your upper and lower teeth come together.
- An increase in oral discomfort or jaw pain.
If you’ve noticed these or other unusual symptoms after orthodontic treatment, reach out to our skilled orthodontist Dr. Grussmark at 786-563-4973.
Preventing Orthodontic Relapse
Orthodontic relapse is when teeth shift back to their original positions after orthodontic treatment. To prevent relapse, it’s essential to follow these guidelines:
- Wear Retainers: Retainers are custom-made devices that help maintain your teeth’s new positions after braces or Invisalign treatment. Consistently wearing your retainers, as instructed by your orthodontist, is crucial to prevent relapse.
- Follow Post-Treatment Instructions: Your orthodontist will provide specific post-treatment care instructions, such as dietary restrictions and oral hygiene practices. Following these recommendations can help maintain your results.
- Regular Check-ups: Continue to visit your orthodontist for scheduled check-ups and adjustments. They can monitor your progress and make necessary corrections if any relapse is detected early.
- Maintain Good Oral Hygiene: Proper dental care, including brushing, flossing, and regular cleanings, is essential to preserve the results of orthodontic treatment.
- Avoid Bad Teeth Habits: Refrain from habits like nail-biting, pencil-chewing, or tongue-thrusting, which can exert pressure on teeth and contribute to relapse.
Treating Orthodontic Relapse
If orthodontic relapse occurs, it can often be treated. The specific treatment approach will depend on the severity of the relapse. Common methods include:
- Retreatment: In some cases, patients may need to undergo orthodontic treatment again to correct relapse. This may involve wearing braces or aligners for a shorter duration to move teeth back to their desired positions.
- Retainer Use: In mild cases of relapse, wearing retainers consistently as instructed by your orthodontist may be sufficient to correct the issue.
- Minor Tooth Adjustments: For minor relapse issues, minor tooth adjustments or refinements can be made using techniques like dental bonding or minor reshaping.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which teeth are most likely to relapse?
Teeth that were initially more crowded or misaligned are more likely to relapse. The front teeth, both upper and lower, are often the most susceptible to relapse.
How long does it take to correct orthodontic relapse?
The duration of treatment to correct orthodontic relapse varies based on the severity of the relapse and the chosen treatment method. It can range from a few months to a year or more.
What are the benefits of retreatment for orthodontic relapse?
Retreatment can restore your smile to its desired appearance and improve your dental health. It also helps prevent further issues that may arise from untreated relapses, such as gum problems or difficulty with biting and chewing.
Why is a retainer necessary to preserve teeth alignment?
Retainers are essential because they help stabilize teeth in their new positions after orthodontic treatment. The bone and soft tissues in the mouth need time to adapt to the new alignment, and retainers prevent the teeth from shifting back to their original positions. Consistent retainer use is crucial for long-term results.
Entrust Your Smile to Our Affordable Brickell Orthodontist
We’re dedicated to ensuring you enjoy your beautifully aligned smile for years. If you notice any signs of previously treated teeth shifting out of position, contact our practice at (786) 563-4973 and schedule an appointment with Dr. Grussmark. We welcome patients from Miami, Miami Beach, and Coral Gables, FL.