In the past, you wore braces to straighten your teeth. However, as the years passed, your teeth gradually started to shift and became misaligned again. You’ve heard that Invisalign can be a great option for indiscreetly correcting orthodontic issues – but is it still a viable choice for you even though you’ve already worn braces? Here’s what you need to know if you want to enjoy a straighter smile again.
Why Do the Teeth Shift After Braces?
Even after a successful orthodontic treatment, your teeth may eventually shift for any of the following reasons:
- Not Wearing Retainers: If you don’t wear your retainers as often as instructed, your teeth will start to move back toward where they used to be.
- Wisdom Teeth: When the wisdom teeth attempt to erupt, there often isn’t enough room for them. This can cause them to put pressure on the other teeth, pushing them out of their proper alignment.
- Bruxism: You might grind or clench your teeth unconsciously while you’re asleep. The resulting pressure can cause the teeth to slowly shift.
Can You Get Invisalign If Your Teeth Shift After Braces?
Simply put, yes. Regardless of whether you’ve worn braces in the past, you can still potentially be a candidate for Invisalign. What ultimately matters is how severe your alignment issues are. Invisalign tends to work best for mild to moderate orthodontic cases; more advanced problems might call for traditional braces.
There are several reasons why Invisalign is worth considering as a solution for teeth that have shifted out of place. For one thing, they’re not as noticeable as traditional braces, which makes them a great choice for adults who are worried about maintaining a professional appearance. On top of that, Invisalign aligners are removable. That means you’ll have the freedom to eat whatever foods you want, and you won’t have to worry about your orthodontic appliance getting in the way while you’re brushing and flossing.
What Can You Expect During Invisalign Treatment?
Invisalign involves a series of aligners that are customized for your specific mouth. Each set of aligners is meant to be worn for about two weeks for 20 to 22 hours a day. The pressure from the aligners will slowly move the teeth toward their intended positions. Every six to eight weeks, you’ll visit your dentist so that they can make sure that your treatment is progressing as planned.
The sooner you start Invisalign treatment, the sooner you can enjoy the benefits of a properly aligned smile again. Talk to your dentist today if you’re interested in learning more about the Invisalign process.
About the Author
Dr. Andrew R. Glynn is proud to be carrying on his family’s legacy of providing patients with high-quality dental care. He studied dentistry at The Ohio State University, and he has completed continuing education in the field of clear aligners and various other subjects. His practice, Glynn Dental of Reynoldsburg, offers Invisalign as an alternative to braces. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Glynn, visit his website or call (614) 864-4618.