Traditional orthodontics are the tried-and-true solution for straightening smiles and have a long history of success. However, if you had braces in the past and have noticed recently that your teeth have once again begun to shift out of alignment, you might wonder whether you can undergo a second treatment.
For example, you might wonder whether you need to get braces again, or whether a more comfortable and discreet alternative, such as Invisalign, can help reposition your grin. Continue reading to learn more about it!
Why Did My Teeth Shift After Braces?
While it can vary significantly based on your individual circumstances, treatment with braces typically takes 18 to 36 months. However, your teeth, gums, and jaw retain a ‘muscle memory’ and are prone to shifting back out of alignment. This is especially true in the period immediately following the removal of the metal brackets and wires.
As a result, many orthodontists recommend wearing a retainer to help preserve the results. These oral appliances don’t exert enough force to move your teeth, but they help ensure that everything remains in its ideal place long enough for your mouth to acclimate, which reduces the likelihood that they will relapse.
Your grin may have shifted out of alignment if you neglected to wear your retainer as directed, though it could also be due to natural wear and tear from daily use, grinding your teeth at night, growing wisdom teeth, or other factors.
Can I Get Invisalign After Braces?
Whatever the cause of the more recent changes to your dental alignment, it’s only natural to question whether treatment is necessary. Not only might you feel self-conscious about your appearance, but crooked, overlapping, or gapped teeth can also be harder to clean, increasing the risk of oral issues such as cavities, gum disease, and injuries.
If you’re worried that previous treatment with braces precludes you from undergoing a more discreet service, such as Invisalign, you can set your fears aside! Many patients are able to successfully reposition their grins with clear aligners years after having their braces removed.
How Does Invisalign Differ from Braces?
Are you wondering how these transparent trays compare to traditional braces? The clear trays offer many unique advantages, including:
- Non-invasive option. Invisalign is completely removable and therefore impacts your daily routines and diet less than traditional orthodontics do.
- Comfortable aligners. The smooth plastic trays won’t gouge the tender tissues inside your mouth like metallic brackets and clipped ends of wires.
- Discreet appearance. The trays are fully transparent, allowing your natural smile to shine through and boost your confidence.
- Faster results. Many patients complete this treatment in 12 to 18 months, which is less time than it takes with braces.
If you’ve had braces in the past and are unsure whether you’re a good candidate for Invisalign, you can learn more by scheduling a consultation with your orthodontist!
About the Practice
At Serenity Orthodontics, people of all ages benefit from a team of experts eager to help them improve their lives by straightening their smiles. Dr. Podray-Donovan, Dr. Lewis, and Dr. Pelt are passionate about providing a variety of orthodontic services, including Invisalign, to meet you and your family’s unique needs. They take the time to understand your goals and concerns, then use state-of-the-art equipment to customize treatment plans to address them. You can request an appointment on the website or by calling one of their conveniently located offices near you!
