Did you know that braces aren’t just for teenagers? Adults could get braces, too, either for the first time or a second time if their teeth moved back into their original positions after having braces the first time.
We’ll discuss getting braces again as an adult to improve your smile or bite.
What Is Orthodontic Relapse?
One of the main reasons to get braces again comes from what we call orthodontic relapse. This process occurs when your teeth gradually return to their original positions following successful orthodontic treatment, such as braces or Invisalign.
The top cause for this? Unfortunately, it’s because many patients stop wearing retainers after their braces come off. Orthodontists may recommend wearing retainers for life after your braces are removed. Sometimes, you may only need to wear them at night to ensure your teeth stay in place.
Short-term orthodontic relapse may happen in a year, while long-term orthodontic relapse can take up to 10 years to appear.
Patients may need to wear retainers for life because their teeth, jaw, and gums need extra time to stabilize after braces shift them over.
Other factors that may lead to orthodontic relapse include genetics, aging, tooth loss, and teeth grinding.
Related Post: Teeth Grinding Causes and Treatment
You Have More Options Now for Getting Braces Again
Did you have traditional metal braces 20 or 30 years ago? Have your teeth shifted back into their original positions?
You don’t necessarily need to have traditional metal braces again.
Invisalign offers one option. These are acrylic plastic trays that your orthodontist will switch out every two to four weeks to help move your teeth into the correct positions over time.
Ceramic braces are white or clear, and they look invisible against your teeth, giving you a confident smile without the shiny metal braces showing up every time you flash your pearly whites. First available in 1987, ceramic braces can give your smile a full treatment if your orthodontist believes Invisalign isn’t right for you.
Costs May Be Lower Now When Getting Braces Again
As a teenager, your parents probably paid for your braces. Now, prices may have come down to where they are more affordable than before. As you have more options and braces are much more readily available, costs and prices may have come down over the past 20 to 30 years.
There might also be some financing options available for getting braces again as an adult. Your orthodontist will discuss your financial choices as you discuss possible treatments.
Your Teeth & Roots May Still Be Strong
If you’re interested in getting braces again, your orthodontist will examine your mouth to see the current conditions of your teeth, gums, jaw, roots, and bone structure. Your doctor will determine if your teeth are strong enough to shift around in your mouth again.
Like before, your overall treatment plan can take several months, depending on how much moving your teeth need to do. They will progress gradually over time until they settle into the right positions.
Your orthodontist will look at an x-ray of your mouth to see the current positions of your teeth, what the roots look like, and if your bone structure is healthy. Any missing teeth will also be taken into account when determining if getting braces again is suitable for you.
Having Braces Again Can Improve Your Bite, Too
Braces and other orthodontic treatments can align your teeth properly in your mouth for a beautiful smile. However, getting braces again can do more for you than improve your confidence.
Aligning your teeth can help reduce your risk of developing cavities or plaque build-up, alleviate jaw pain, reduce issues with chewing or swallowing, and help with an overbite or underbite.
Related Post: FAQs About Overbites
Get Your Smile Back Again
Lastly, we’d like to say having a beautiful smile can improve your confidence. Straightened teeth can transform your appearance completely when you smile, feel happier, and get more endorphins released into your bloodstream to help elevate your mood and relax your body.
Not only does a new smile help your physical health, but it can also help your emotional well-being as you navigate through social situations and professional settings with your newly found confidence.
Talk to Your Orthodontist in Springfield, Missouri, About Getting Braces Again
Do you want to get the bright smile back you had earlier in life? Are you experiencing pain that might come from tooth misalignment?
The orthodontic care staff at Parkcrest Dental Group, led by Dr. Steven Harrison, can help you if you want to look into getting braces again as an adult. You can get your smile back!
Contact us or call (417) 887-1220, and we’ll take care of you.
