Can Invisalign Be Used When Crooked Teeth Shift Back After Braces?

If you have had braces in the past, you may want to try Invisalign® to correct any crooked teeth that shifted back. Read on to learn more. Fortunately, you can receive Invisalign aligners despite having already had braces. Interestingly, those who have to undergo teeth straightening for a second time usually go for Invisalign instead of wearing braces all over again.

An overview of getting Invisalign after braces

Invisalign, like braces, may address a wide range of dental alignment problems, from minor to complex issues. If the teeth have moved back, Invisalign is a discreet way to correct them. Patients will not need as many emergency visits with Invisalign as with braces since there are no wires or brackets to adjust or repair. Patients can now eat their favorite meals without restriction, unlike braces.

Patients will visit a dental professional every 6 to 8 weeks throughout the treatment duration. The patient will then be able to pick up the next set of aligners. They will wear each aligner set for one to two weeks. Patients should wear their aligners for at least 22 hours each day to get the best outcomes. This will make it easier for the following set of aligners to fit correctly.

What causes the teeth to shift after braces?

A patient's teeth may have moved for various reasons. Activities that involve using facial muscles, including speaking and eating, generally put the teeth under pressure. The locations of the teeth may change gradually as a result of this. Teeth grinding, whether done at night or during the day, may also alter the position of the teeth.

After the braces are removed, patients should make sure they use the retainer according to the dentist's instructions. In the months after completing the braces treatment, patients may have used their retainer inconsistently. Patients must keep wearing the retainers for several nights per week. Some dentists even advise their patients to use their retainers for the remainder of their lives to prevent the teeth from moving back.

After completing Invisalign treatment

Patients must use the retainer once they complete their Invisalign treatment. The retainer will be a transparent plastic tray, similar to the Invisalign aligner trays. The dentist may advise the patient on how long to wear the retainer. The retainers from Invisalign are 30% stronger than conventional retainers, according to the creators of Invisalign. Even for individuals who grind their teeth, these retainers are built to last a long time.