When most people think about braces, they picture the treatment as a one-time journey to a straighter, healthier smile. But did you know that it’s not uncommon for people to need braces more than once in their lifetime? If you’ve already had orthodontic treatment in the past and are wondering whether another round is needed, you are not alone—rest assured, having to wear braces twice is often far easier than the first time around! Here’s more about metal braces and why sometimes it’s necessary to wear them a second time.
Is It Okay to Wear Braces a Second Time?
The short answer is yes, it’s completely safe and normal to wear braces more than once. Orthodontic treatment is designed to gently move your teeth into proper alignment, and sometimes, teeth need to be moved once again later in life. While it’s true that orthodontic treatment is well-suited to children and teens, since their jaws are still growing, adults are still subject to tooth movement—meaning they can benefit from braces again if their teeth become misaligned later in life. Plus, with today’s advancements in dental technology, most patients and providers agree that wearing braces is now easier than ever before. This means patients can usually expect a smoother process the second time!
Why Might Someone Need Braces Twice?
There are many reasons why teeth may shift after your first round of braces, but one of the most common causes is not wearing your retainer as instructed. After braces are removed, teeth naturally try to move back to their original (and incorrect) positions. Retainers are meant to prevent this, but if they aren’t worn, the teeth have nothing to halt their movement.
Our bodies also change greatly over time, so it’s possible to experience tooth movement even if you’re diligent about wearing your retainer. In some cases, dental health issues like tooth loss or gum disease can impact the positioning of the teeth and cause small shifts. It also goes without saying that physical trauma and impact (like sports injuries or motor accidents) can also cause tooth movement that warrants orthodontics.
Needing braces a second time doesn’t mean your first treatment was a failure; it just means your teeth may be a little stubborn and need a little extra help! And remember, properly-aligned teeth are easier to clean, reduce your risk of gum disease, and help prevent uneven wear on your teeth—all reasons why you should feel optimistic about straightening your smile.
About the Practice
Our team here at Simply Orthodontics has proudly served the needs of patients in Wayland and the surrounding area for several years, offering a wide variety of orthodontic services for all ages. If you’ve worn braces in the past but have noticed orthodontic issues reappearing, rest assured, our team is committed to finding a personalized solution that helps you meet your goals. If you have any questions about the blog or you’d like to get in touch with our team to set up an appointment for yourself or a loved one, please reach out online or call today for more information or assistance. Telephone: (508) 358-6300.