I Haven't Worn My Retainer And My Teeth Have Moved
Retainers are a crucial part of orthodontic treatment. After months or even years of wearing braces, retainers are necessary to keep your teeth in their new position. Wearing your retainer as instructed by your orthodontist is essential to prevent your teeth from shifting back to their original position. However, what happens when you haven't worn your retainer, and your teeth have moved? In this article, we will discuss the consequences of not wearing your retainer and what you can do to correct the issue.
Why is Wearing a Retainer Important?
After the completion of orthodontic treatment, your teeth will still be prone to shifting. This is because the periodontal ligaments that hold your teeth in place have not fully adjusted to their new position. Wearing a retainer helps to stabilize your teeth in their new position and prevent them from shifting back to their original position. Retainers also help to maintain the alignment of your bite, ensuring that your teeth meet properly when you bite down.
What Happens When You Don't Wear Your Retainer?
When you don't wear your retainer as instructed by your orthodontist, your teeth will start to shift back to their original position. This can happen within just a few months of not wearing your retainer. The longer you go without wearing your retainer, the more your teeth will shift. This can lead to a relapse, which means that your teeth will return to their original position before you had braces.
What Can You Do If Your Teeth Have Moved?
If you haven't worn your retainer, and your teeth have moved, there are still options available to correct it. The first step is to schedule an appointment with your orthodontist. They will evaluate the extent of the relapse and recommend the best treatment option for you. In some cases, wearing a new retainer may be enough to correct the issue. However, if the relapse is severe, you may need additional orthodontic treatment, such as braces or clear aligners.
How to Prevent Your Teeth from Moving Again?
After correcting the relapse, it's important to follow your orthodontist's instructions to prevent your teeth from shifting again. This includes wearing your retainer as instructed, which may be all day or only at night. You should also practice good oral hygiene, including brushing and flossing regularly, and avoiding foods that can damage your braces or retainer. Finally, visiting your orthodontist for regular checkups will allow them to monitor your progress and make any necessary adjustments to your treatment plan.
The Bottom Line
Wearing your retainer as instructed by your orthodontist is crucial to prevent your teeth from shifting back to their original position after completing orthodontic treatment. If you haven't worn your retainer, and your teeth have moved, don't panic. Schedule an appointment with your orthodontist, and they will recommend the best treatment option for you. Remember to follow their instructions to prevent your teeth from shifting again, and maintain the beautiful smile you worked so hard to achieve.