Having to redo something you put a lot of effort into can be very frustrating. Whether it’s repainting a fence, reseeding the lawn, or even getting orthodontic treatment a second time, most people would prefer not having to repeat complicated projects. Thankfully, even if you had braces as a teen or young adult, you may still qualify for discreet, convenient Invisalign. Using clear, comfortable trays instead of wires and brackets, this treatment can repair a variety of alignment problems like gaps, crowding, or crooked teeth, as well as many common bite problems such as underbites, overbites, crossbites, and even open bites. Here’s what you need to know about re-aligning your smile with Invisalign!
Why Do Teeth Shift After Braces?
It can take many months or even years to complete treatment with braces. But while the results are usually well-worth the hassle, getting to them can often be an arduous task. Between the complicated cleaning process, the frequent discomfort, and the dietary restrictions, most people are relieved when they finally come off. However, just because your teeth look great when they do, doesn’t mean your results will last without additional effort. In fact, if you aren’t compliant with your retainer, your teeth could move back into their original places. Unfortunately, many patients become lax or forgetful about wearing these as the years go by, causing their smile to revert slowly over time.
Other common reasons your teeth may shift are due to natural movement as you age, receding gums, grinding (bruxism), permanent tooth loss due to gum disease or tooth decay, and even accidental injury.
Can I Get Invisalign if I’ve Worn Braces Before?
Many patients are initially hesitant to redo their orthodontic treatment as adults because they remember it as being painful, hard to take care of, very noticeable, and full of dietary restrictions. Thankfully, discreet, comfortable Invisalign could help align your smile faster and easier than you ever thought possible – even if you’ve already had braces in the past! To see if you qualify for Invisalign, you’ll need to schedule a consultation with your dentist, but the good news is that this incredible treatment is ideal for correcting many common orthodontic problems, and because your trays are clear, you can maintain a professional appearance while your smile moves back into place. Furthermore, it can often be completed in as little as 12 to 18 months, instead of the typical 18 to 24 months that most adults end up wearing braces!
How Can I Protect My Invisalign Results?
After your Invisalign treatment concludes, you may be wondering how to avoid needing orthodontics for a third time. The good news is that it’s easier than you might think! First, be sure to wear your retainers as prescribed by your dentist. While it is understandable that you’d want some free time for your teeth, these devices were designed to maintain the new positioning of your arches for a lifetime with regular use. Plus, you’ll usually only need to wear them while you sleep!
Furthermore, be sure to take excellent care of your teeth and gums. Issues like gum disease and permanent tooth loss can rob you of your smile, and undo years of orthodontic treatment over time. Thus, be sure to brush and floss regularly, and visit your dentist every six months for your exams and cleanings, too!
Remember, although nobody wants to have to redo big, time-consuming projects, if your teeth have shifted over time following braces treatment, it is possible to realign them more comfortably and discreetly than ever before with the help of Invisalign! To find out if it’s right for you, talk to your dentist today.
About Dr. Magid
Dr. David Magid earned his undergraduate degree at Brandeis University and his DMD at the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine. Since graduating, he has earned Fellowship in the American Academy of Implant Dentistry, and he is proudly a certified Invisalign provider. To learn more about this treatment and see if your smile qualifies, schedule a consultation for Invisalign today by visiting our website or calling Magid Dental Care at 973-227-9211.