Getting braces off is a huge moment, but there’s one reason why many people ask why their teeth move after braces are gone. This is a common concern and it makes great sense, especially after spending months or even years in orthodontic treatment. Luckily, there are ways to avoid this moving tendency, and keep that gorgeous, straight smile long after your orthodontist braces removal. We’ll look at the reasons teeth shift after braces and what you can do to prevent this from happening.

All about teeth movement after braces

It might feel like after your orthodontist braces removal, your teeth are back to their original positions. The fact is, this is a natural process. For a long period of time during the treatment, it has put pressure on your teeth, and after the braces are removed, the teeth tends to return to its previous position. Your bones are still adjusting to the modificiations done during treatment around the teeth.

This phenomenon — known as “relapse” — can happen for a number of reasons:

Incomplete Stabilization After Braces: Your teeth are not as stable after braces as you think. Teeth are more prone to move again without enough retention.

Not Worn Retainers: Retainers play a big role in keeping the teeth from moving after the braces are removed. If not worn as prescribed, the teeth can move.

Natural Forces: Chewing, speaking and tongue pressure all affect the movement of your teeth, and they are not going anywhere if you do not take care of them.

How to Keep Your Teeth from Moving After Braces

So now that we know why teeth can shift after braces, here’s how to keep that smile in check and avoid that from happening:

Remove Your Retainer Only When Necessary

The best way to ensure straight teeth after your orthodontist takes off your braces is to wear your retainer according to your orthodontist's instructions. Retainers help keep your teeth in their new positions as the surrounding bone and tissues adjust. Most people are instructed to wear their retainer full-time at first, then gradually reduce that time, usually to just at night. One of the most common causes of relapse is not wearing your retainer as prescribed, so ensure you're adhering to your orthodontist's instructions.

Follow Up With Your Orthodontist

Consistent visits with your orthodontist are vital, even after your braces have been removed. These follow-up appointments give your orthodontist the opportunity to keep track of the alignment of your teeth, ensuring they are stabilizing straight. If you are worried that your teeth may be moving at all, your orthodontist can offer further guidance, including whether you need to change anything about how you're using your retainer or increasing your orthodontic treatment if you need it.

The experts at Garfinkle Orthodontics understand that while getting you a perfect new smile is key, follow up care to keep that smile is just as vital. They partner with patients to help them to monitor their progress and to resolve any issues as they arise.

Maintain Good Oral Hygiene

Good oral hygiene is critical not only for maintaining good oral health, but also for keeping your orthodontic work intact. Too much plaque can lead to gum disease, which relies on good brushing habits to protect your gums and teeth and keep them positioned correctly. It can also cause gum disease and other oral problems, which reduces the stability of your teeth.

Avoid Hard or Sticky Foods

In the months after your orthodontist removes your braces, you’d be best off steering clear of food that might place extra pressure on your teeth or cause them to shift. Stick with softer, easy-to-manage foods during this time, as hard, sticky, or chewy foods can shift your teeth or damage your retainer.

Might Need More Treatment Options If Required

If there has been major movement after the braces came off, or if you didn’t wear your retainer as directed, you may need further treatment. In some cases, your orthodontist may recommend a second round of orthodontic treatment, or a more permanent form of retention, such as a bonded retainer. These alternatives can keep your smile stable and movement at bay.

Conclusion

This is very normal to be concerned about teeth movement following your orthodontist braces removal. But if you follow the care guidelines, wear your retainer, and check in with your orthodontist, you can prevent shifting and ensure your teeth look as good as they did when your braces came off.

Dr. Thrower is the author of this article, If you want to learn more about Invisalign in Hillsdale, a top orthodontist you can visit to: garfinkleortho.com