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After two years of working for the perfect smile, it can be a blow when patients hear they may have to get extra treatment to maintain their straight teeth. Here at Shiney Smiles Orthodontics, we know maintaining straight teeth is optimal for every patient. Otherwise, why get braces? While retreatment may not sound fun, many patients of all ages require minor adjustments to maintain a beautiful and healthy smile. The good news is that retreatment usually requires less time than your original treatment time, and your previous experience with braces can help you touch up things quickly so you can get back to the smile you love. Let’s look at some of the retreatment options available for adults.
Orthodontic Relapse
Orthodontic relapse is a term used to describe the tendency of teeth to return to their original positions. Shifting occurs naturally over time. Teeth can drift back to their original positions over time, even with orthodontic treatment. This is the general cause of retreatment. There are two types of orthodontic relapse that can cause your smile quality to decrease.
Short-term relapse: This form of orthodontic relapse is most likely to occur soon after we remove your braces. If your teeth shift less than one year after orthodontic treatment is complete, you’re experiencing a short-term relapse.
Long-term relapse: This type of orthodontic relapse happens long after you’ve finished treatment. If your teeth begin to appear crooked a year or more after treatment, you’re experiencing a long-term relapse.
Orthodontic relapses are extremely common. Some studies estimate that more than 50% of patients experience a relapse within ten years of treatment. Orthodontists used to recommend wearing retainers for only a year or two after treatment and have since realized the need for a retainer required more time. Without using a retainer to hold your teeth in that straight line, your teeth begin to settle back into their original positions. Now, orthodontists recommend wearing retainers every night for life for the best results.
Metal Braces
The next option for retreatment is traditional metal braces. They are bridged together using metal brackets and arches to help straighten your teeth over time. They are typically made of stainless steel and nickel, making the brackets durable.
They’re an effective option for treating a wide range of orthodontic issues and can close gaps. And align the teeth relatively quickly. Remember, the treatment and care of your braces are essential. Following your orthodontist’s instructions is important to minimize your second treatment’s timeline. Your diet, hygiene routine, and maintaining regular check-ins all factor in the effectiveness of this second treatment. While braces may seem inconvenient, once the treatment is over, your new smile will be all the reward you need.
Clear Braces
Like metal braces, clear braces use brackets and wires to help straighten teeth. They are made of ceramic material and are also set with brackets. Clear braces are a popular choice for those who want to blend in during treatment.
The main benefit of getting clear braces is that they are easy to disguise. With the slightly smaller frame, clear braces are designed to blend in with your teeth for a more natural look.
However, it’s important to note that clear braces are more fragile than traditional metal braces. They can also discolor from things like juice or coffee between visits, so it’s important to be careful when choosing clear braces for treatment.
InBrace Hidden Treatment
InBrace hidden braces are a truly invisible option to straighten your smile. The unique InBrace Smartwire system is completely customized for your smile to give you the best results in the quickest time possible. The hidden braces are placed on the backs of your teeth so no one will see them or even know they’re there.
InBrace is an automated system, so it’s like putting your treatment on autopilot. There are no uncomfortable tightening appointments, and maintaining your oral hygiene routine will be a breeze. Retreatment with InBrace is quick and efficient, typically only lasting a few short months.
Clear Aligners
Clear aligners use a series of invisible aligners to help straighten your teeth. They are typically removable and are designed to fit comfortably on your teeth as they work to enhance your smile.
Clear aligners are a great option for patients who had braces when they were younger and just need a touch-up. They also work well for patients who have mild to moderate dental problems. While clear aligners are a great alternative to braces, there are a few things to note when using aligners to ensure the most effective treatment possible.
- Don’t get them dirty. Clear aligners are sensitive and easy to stain, so make sure you drink water exclusively while they’re in. Removing the aligners when possible while eating or drinking is best to avoid damage.
- Don’t scratch them. Help your aligners last longer during treatment by taking good care of them.
- Be patient. Sometimes the process of using aligners can seem tedious. It’s important to continue to take good care of your aligners and not rush the process to a beautiful smile.
- Keep them safe. As clear aligners are removable, it’s important to always keep up with where you put them. They are essential in the progression toward a brighter smile.
Clear aligners don’t require any metal, making them easy to apply and use during treatment. As you progress in the teeth-straightening process, the aligners will slowly shift your teeth into place. Each tray is made to slightly shift your teeth until they are perfectly aligned into a new and improved smile.
Let Your Smile Shine With Shiney Smiles Orthodontics
Dr. Sheinis and the team at Shiney Smiles Orthodontics work to create a personalized treatment plan and provide unmatched care for every patient that walks through our door. Dr. Sheinis and his expert team have the experience necessary to give you the best in treatment, costs, and efficiency as you work to align your jaw and smile! If you or someone you know is interested in orthodontic treatment, contact us today to schedule your FREE consultation here at Shiney Smiles Orthodontics. You’ll enjoy quick and easy appointments with flexibility and payment plans that work for you and your family’s budget.