Handling Orthodontic Relapse
Published June 22, 2024Uh-oh, your teeth are shifting again! If you’ve noticed changes in your smile after finishing orthodontic treatment, you might be experiencing an orthodontic relapse. Don’t worry—Dr. Patricia Ortiz and the bilingual team at Pearls Orthodontics in Pflugerville, TX, are here to help you get back on track.
What Is Orthodontic Relapse?
Orthodontic relapse happens when your teeth start moving back to their original positions after braces or aligners are removed. It’s more common than you might think and can occur months or even years after treatment. Various factors, such as not wearing your retainer consistently, natural changes in your mouth, or even grinding your teeth, can contribute to this shift.
Steps to Take if You Notice Relapse
First and foremost, don’t panic! Orthodontic relapse is manageable, especially if caught early. Here’s what you should do:
Schedule a Consultation: The first step is to contact Pearls Orthodontics and set up a consultation. Dr. Patricia Ortiz will assess the situation and recommend the best course of action.
Wear Your Retainer: If you still have your retainer, start wearing it again as directed by your orthodontist. It can help prevent further shifting and might even correct minor relapses.
Follow Professional Advice: Depending on the severity of the relapse, Dr. Ortiz might suggest different options, such as getting a new retainer, using clear aligners for minor adjustments, or in some cases, reapplying braces for a short period.
Preventing Future Relapse
Preventing orthodontic relapse is all about consistency and care:
Wear Your Retainer: It cannot be stressed enough how crucial it is to wear your retainer as prescribed. Consistency is key to maintaining your smile.
Maintain Good Oral Hygiene: Keeping your teeth and gums healthy supports the long-term success of your orthodontic treatment. Brush and floss regularly, and visit your dentist for check-ups.
Regular Check-Ups: Even after your braces are off, continue seeing your orthodontist for periodic check-ups. This allows any potential issues to be caught early and managed effectively.
Pearls Orthodontics in Pflugerville, TX
If you’re in Pflugerville, TX, and dealing with orthodontic relapse, the team at Pearls Orthodontics is here for you. Dr. Patricia Ortiz and her bilingual team are dedicated to providing personalized care to ensure your smile remains straight and beautiful. We understand how frustrating relapse can be, but with our expertise and support, you can get your orthodontic journey back on track.
Orthodontic relapse can be a setback, but it’s not the end of the world. With prompt action and professional care from Pearls Orthodontics, you can maintain that beautiful, straight smile you worked so hard to achieve. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us if you notice any changes—we’re here to help!
Image from Authority Dental under CC 2.0
Categorised in: Orthodontic FAQ
