I had an Invisalign treatment when I was in my late teens. I’m in my mid-20s now and my teeth seemed to have shifted. Do I need to re-do the Invisalign treatment?
Missy L. – Pennsylvania
Missy,
First, I’d like to assure you it is normal for people’s teeth to shift. If they didn’t, orthodontics would never work. However, genetics plays a large factor in how much shifting people experience.
It’s likely your dentist provided you with a retainer to wear temporarily after you completed your Invisalign treatment for a specific period of time. If your teeth are shifting you may want to wear that retainer again.
The only reason I would re-do the Invisalign treatment is if your teeth shifted into a position you don’t like. Otherwise, a retainer should do the trick. Some people have teeth which constantly shift. For those patients, I often recommend a permanent retainer. This is permanently fixed to the back of your teeth. You’ll be able to keep your teeth in proper alignment without worrying about people seeing your retainer.
Talk to your dentist or orthodontist. When they look at your bite, they’ll be able to tell you which treatment is preferable in your case. It’s likely, because your Invisalign treatment was completed in your teens, you’re going to a new dentist. Your old dentist should be able to easily provide any records or information your new dentist need about your Invisalign treatment.
This blog is brought to you by Dr. Ryan Noah.