A well-aligned smile can help a person enjoy a wide range of important health benefits like improved chewing, clearer speech, and comfortable jaw movement, and many people achieve healthy and straight grins by undergoing orthodontic treatment. However, the teeth of some patients may gradually drift out of place over time after they are done wearing braces, which can make remedial treatment necessary. Here’s a quick look at why your teeth may shift out of place over the years and how your orthodontist can help you keep your smile in great shape.
Grinding (Bruxism)
Many people grind their teeth as a stress response when they are awake, and many others grind reflexively in their sleep. This unfortunate habit can lead to a multitude of oral health issues like excessive enamel erosion, chips, cracks, gum recession, and TMJ strain, and it can gradually force teeth out of position. If you grind when awake, being mindful of the habit can help you stop when you catch yourself in the act. If you grind when asleep, wearing a nightguard can help reduce the damage, and orthodontic retainers can be designed to protect the teeth from being injured due to bruxism.
Age
As the human body ages, much of the connective tissue holding its members in place will weaken, and this can cause the teeth to drift out of alignment. This can be exacerbated by the accumulating effects of oral health problems like gum disease. Thankfully, you may be able to mitigate dental drift due to age by practicing excellent oral hygiene to protect your gums from infection and making smart eating decisions that provide your body with the nutrients it needs to keep your connective tissues strong.
Neglecting to Wear Your Retainer
After your orthodontic treatment ends, your teeth will be inclined to shift back towards their former positions, and retainers are designed to hold them in place while the connective tissue supporting them adjusts to their new alignment. It’s crucial to continue wearing your retainer as instructed for at least several years after your orthodontic treatment ends and ideal to continue wearing it for life. Neglecting to do so can lead to a relapse that makes remedial orthodontic treatment necessary.
It’s perfectly possible for former orthodontic patients to receive additional treatments to get their teeth back in shape if necessary. Consulting with your orthodontist will help you find the best way to maintain a healthy and beautiful smile.
About the Author
Dr. Alex Johnson earned his dental degree and his orthodontic certificate at Washington University and is certified in dental sleep medicine. He is also a proud member of the Florida Dental Association, the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, and the American Association of Orthodontists. His office offers orthodontic treatment such as Invisalign, Nyce smile aligners, and traditional braces for children and adults. If you are concerned about dental drift, contact his office online or dial (727) 786-7550.