If you’ve worn braces in the past and you’ve begun to notice that your teeth are starting to shift again, you aren’t alone. Even though braces are often associated with teenagers and youth, many adults find themselves needing orthodontic treatment a second time! There are several reasons why this might happen, and while getting braces again might not be what you were expecting, the benefits of a properly aligned smile make it well worth it. Here’s what you need to know.
Why Is a Second Round of Braces Sometimes Needed?
One of the most common reasons for needing braces a second time is not wearing your retainer consistently after your first treatment. Teeth naturally shift over time, and without your retainer to hold them in place following your first round of braces, they can gradually shift back into their original, crooked positions.
However, as we age, our teeth can still shift due to changes in bone density, jaw alignment, and other factors – and even if you were diligent about wearing your retainer, small, unintended movements can still occur. Teeth can also be shifted out of place due to physical trauma or injury, or if you’ve lost a tooth or had one extracted without replacing it, the teeth adjacent to the gap can drift toward it.
Tips for Keeping Your Orthodontic Treatment Right on Track
If you’re considering a second round of braces, you’ll want to ensure that things go well. Here are some tips that should help you easily keep things on track so that you can resume enjoying a straighter, healthier smile all the sooner:
- Attend all of your check-up appointments so minor adjustments can be made as needed.
- Stick to your dietary guidelines so that a broken wire or bracket doesn’t set you back.
- If you participate in sports, wear an athletic mouthguard to protect your teeth and braces.
- Brush and floss every day; cavities, gum disease, and other issues will delay your treatment.
- Wear your retainer as instructed, no matter what – and keep tabs on it; lost or broken retainers will set you back, and they should be replaced as soon as possible if the need arises.
Needing to wear braces a second time shouldn’t be viewed negatively or as a failure on your part; as you probably know, teeth can be stubborn, but helping them find their proper spots inside your mouth can ensure they serve you well for life!
About the Practice
Our team here at Simply Orthodontics Milford has proudly served patients and families in Milford and the surrounding area for several years, offering a wide range of orthodontic services for patients of all ages including traditional braces, Invisalign, and many others. If you have any questions about the blog or you’d like to get in touch with us to schedule an appointment, please reach out online or by phone today for more information – a straighter smile is closer than you realize! Telephone: (508) 473-2002.