After going through the long and expensive process of straightening their teeth with braces or Invisalign, the last thing anyone wants is their newly straightened teeth to begin shifting out of alignment. During the first several months, if not years, after your teeth straightening treatment, your gums will be pretty tender and soft. They could shift toward their old positions until your teeth anchor into their new positions. Below, the professionals at Comprehensive Dental Care outline five ways to help prevent your teeth from shifting after braces.
Comprehensive Dental care is a dental practice in Gainesville, Florida, incorporating the latest dental techniques for our patient’s dental needs. We offer various dental services, including restorative dentistry, cosmetic dentistry, and dental therapy services. Contact us today to schedule an appointment with our dentist in Gainesville, FL!
Wear A Retainer
Wear your retainer responsibly is the easiest way to prevent your teeth from shifting after braces. Generally, as soon as your braces are removed, your dentist will instruct you to wear a retainer. As opposed to pulling your teeth into new positions, as braces and Invisalign do, a retainer simply holds your teeth in position. Whatever type of retainer you receive after removing your braces, wear it consistently and closely follow your dentist’s instructions.
Avoid Sleeping On Your Face
Excessive pressure on your face for an extended time can cause your teeth to shift. Given that your gums will be very soft and malleable after removing your braces, do your best to avoid putting pressure on your face, including sleeping on your face. Instead, you should sleep on your back or use a neck pillow to protect your face and mouth.
Keep Your Gums Healthy
Maintaining healthy gums is crucial to protecting yourself from shifting teeth, as well as preventing a plethora of other orthodontic complications. Following removing your braces, you should be extra diligent about caring for your teeth and gums. Plaque build-up can soften your gums further, making it easier for your teeth to shift from their new positions. You can keep your gums healthy by remembering to floss and brush the appropriate amount each day.
Stop Leaning On Your Hand
Similar to how sleeping on your face can cause your teeth to shift, so can leaning on your hand for an extended time. We understand that leaning on your hand is comfortable during long working hours sitting at your desk, but you should avoid doing so if you want to give your teeth the best possible chance at remaining straight and settling into their new positions.
Be Aware Of Your Mouth Habits
Following braces, your teeth are ready to shift, meaning even minor mouth habits can prevent your teeth from shifting back! For example, pressing your tongue hard against the back of your teeth or clenching your teeth when frustrated can both move your teeth. If you are worried about a particular oral habit, contact us today to see if there is a risk!