Many people get braces as teenagers, enjoy a straight smile for years, and assume the results will last a lifetime. But teeth can shift over time, and sometimes they move enough to cause crowding, spacing, or bite issues again.
If this sounds familiar, you may be wondering if you can wear braces a second time. In many cases, the answer is yes—and it can be just as effective as your first round of treatment.
Why Teeth Can Shift After Braces
Even after orthodontic treatment, teeth are not permanently fixed in place. Everyday habits, natural changes in the jaw, and skipped retainer use can all contribute to shifting. Some common reasons teeth move include:
- Not wearing your retainer as recommended
- Age-related changes in your bite and jaw position
- Teeth grinding or clenching
- Tooth loss that alters spacing
- Gum disease affecting the supporting bone structure
This gradual movement, known as orthodontic relapse, can occur years—even decades—after your first treatment.
Why You Might Need Braces Again
A second round of braces isn’t only about appearance. Shifting teeth can lead to problems like uneven wear, difficulty cleaning certain areas, and changes in your bite that cause jaw discomfort. In some cases, gaps or crowding can also affect how you speak or chew.
Whether you choose traditional braces or clear aligners for your second treatment will depend on the severity of your relapse and your personal preferences. Your orthodontist will assess your current alignment, overall dental health, and treatment goals before recommending a plan.
Treatment Options for a Second Round
The good news is that many second treatments are shorter than the first. If your teeth have shifted only slightly, you may only need a few months of braces or aligners to correct the problem. More significant relapse might require a longer treatment period.
Options may include:
- Traditional metal braces for precise and comprehensive alignment
- Ceramic braces for a more discreet look
- Clear aligners for removable, nearly invisible treatment
Your orthodontist might also recommend additional measures—such as a bonded retainer after treatment—to help maintain your results for the long term.
How to Maintain Results After Retreatment
If you’ve had braces before, you probably remember the importance of wearing your retainer. After a second treatment, this step is even more critical. Teeth can continue to shift naturally as you age, so your orthodontist may recommend nightly retainer wear indefinitely.
Other habits that help preserve your smile include regular dental checkups, addressing teeth grinding with a nightguard if needed, and replacing lost or damaged retainers promptly.
Correcting orthodontic relapse can restore both function and confidence to your smile—sometimes in less time than you think.
About the Practice
Wigal Orthodontics offers personalized orthodontic care for patients of all ages, including those seeking retreatment after previous braces. Dr. Wigal and Dr. Kluemper provide a full range of options, from traditional braces to advanced clear aligners, to help patients achieve lasting results.
Call us at (740) 397-2111 or request an appointment online.