If you’ve already had braces once before, you were probably relieved when they finally came off. Between the cleaning struggles, the discomfort, and the dietary restrictions, it’s probably not an experience you’re eager to repeat.
But what happens if your teeth have shifted positions following past orthodontic treatment? How can you align your smile without another round of wires and brackets? Enter Invisalign. Using clear trays, you can redo your orthodontic treatment and get your teeth back into their ideal positioning, all without the hassle of traditional braces. Here’s everything you need to know about re-treatment with Invisalign!
Why Teeth Shift After Orthodontic Treatment
There are many reasons your teeth can move following orthodontic treatment. As you age, they can naturally shift with time, especially if you are missing any and have gaps in your arches. Another cause is bruxism or grinding, which because of the excessive pressure placed on your teeth can slowly push them out of place.
Finally, if you were prescribed a retainer following your initial treatment and didn’t wear it as directed, your teeth do have the potential to move back to their old positioning. Thankfully, no matter the cause, Invisalign usually can help.
The Benefits of Invisalign
Invisalign aligners are clear trays that fit over your teeth and gradually align your smile much like braces do. However, unlike with wires and brackets, you can remove your trays for meals, oral hygiene, and to advance to a new pair. Invisalign is more discreet than braces, making it an excellent choice for adults, and with proper compliance it generally takes less time to complete treatment than it would with braces!
Can I Get Invisalign if I’ve Already Had Braces?
In a word, yes. Though it will vary depending on the individual, patients successfully redo orthodontic treatment with Invisalign all the time. To see if you qualify for this, you will need to schedule a consultation with your dentist, but as long as Invisalign can realistically treat your specific issues, there is no reason why you cannot try aligners instead of committing to a second set of braces.
Making Results Last
Following retreatment with Invisalign, it’s important to care for your teeth properly. This will help your them remain in their proper alignment. Thus, be sure to keep wearing your retainers as prescribed, attend your regular biannual dental exams and cleanings, and take excellent care of your oral hygiene at home by brushing twice a day and flossing once a day. Keeping your teeth and gums healthy will reduce your risk of needing dental work such as crowns, fillings, or extractions, all of which can affect the alignment of your arches.
Remember, while it may seem daunting to redo your orthodontic treatment, thankfully solutions like Invisalign can make realigning your smile easier, faster, and much more comfortable than the first time around. To see if you qualify for treatment, please schedule a consultation with your dentist today!
About Our Practice
At Salmon Brook Dental, we know you lead a busy life. That’s why we offer a variety of treatments right here in house, so you don’t have to drive all over town going from specialist to specialist. We’re even open late and on Saturdays to better fit your schedule. If you’d like to learn more about how comfortable, convenient Invisalign treatment could help re-align your smile, schedule a consultation today by visiting our website or calling us at 860-653-4551.