I Have A Permanent Retainer But My Teeth Are Moving
If you have had braces, you may have received a permanent retainer to help keep your teeth in place after the braces are removed. While these retainers are designed to be a long-term solution, you may notice that your teeth are still moving despite wearing the retainer. This can be frustrating and alarming, but there are several reasons why this may be happening.
1. Your Retainer Is Not Fitted Properly
If your retainer is not fitted properly, it may not be able to keep your teeth in place effectively. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including changes in your teeth or gums, damage to the retainer, or poor initial fitting. If you suspect that your retainer is not fitted properly, you should make an appointment with your orthodontist to have it adjusted or replaced.
2. You Are Not Wearing Your Retainer Enough
Even if your retainer is fitted properly, it will not be effective if you are not wearing it enough. Permanent retainers require daily maintenance and care to ensure that they are working as they should. If you are not wearing your retainer enough, your teeth may start to shift, and you may need to wear a new retainer or even get braces again.
3. Your Teeth Are Still Shifting Naturally
Even with a properly fitted and well-maintained retainer, your teeth may still shift over time due to natural growth and changes in your mouth. This is especially true if you received your retainer when you were younger, as your teeth and jaw may still be developing. If this is the case, you may need to consider additional orthodontic treatment to keep your teeth in place.
4. Your Retainer Is Damaged or Broken
If your retainer is damaged or broken, it will not be able to do its job effectively. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including wear and tear, damage from food or other objects, or improper cleaning. If you suspect that your retainer is damaged or broken, you should make an appointment with your orthodontist to have it repaired or replaced.
5. You Need Additional Orthodontic Treatment
In some cases, additional orthodontic treatment may be necessary to keep your teeth in place. This can include braces, clear aligners, or other appliances that are designed to correct specific issues with your teeth or jaw. If you are experiencing significant shifting or movement of your teeth, you should make an appointment with your orthodontist to discuss your options for additional treatment.
Conclusion
If you have a permanent retainer but your teeth are still moving, there are several possible reasons why this may be happening. By identifying the cause of the problem and seeking appropriate treatment, you can help prevent further shifting and maintain a healthy, beautiful smile for years to come.
