Many people get braces before they are adults and consider it a one-and-done treatment. But this might not always be the case. There are situations where people who went through orthodontic treatment as a child or teen might need to consider getting braces again. So how do you know if you would benefit from a second round of braces or Invisalign? Bruno Orthodontics has put together some information below to help you decide if you are a candidate for additional treatment.

Why might I need braces again?

As you get older, there are many things that change about your body, including your teeth. Over time, teeth will often shift out of position, which is just a natural part of aging. Sometimes this occurs because of the eruption of wisdom teeth, sometimes it’s due to normal body changes over time. You might also experience trauma or injury to your teeth, leading to teeth gaps or movement. Unfortunately, this often means previous orthodontic treatment may need to be re-done. It is important to note that just because you had orthodontic treatment when you were younger doesn’t mean you won’t need treatment later, just as previous orthodontic treatment doesn’t mean you definitely will need follow-up treatment when you’re older. 

How do I know if I need braces again?

There are certain fairly obvious signs that you might need treatment again. 

Gaps between your teeth: One of the first things you might notice that signals you need follow-up orthodontic treatment is space between your teeth. This is a sign your teeth have moved out of position. While you might not be bothered by the additional space, it can cause issues with chewing and lead to food getting stuck in between your teeth, which can cause cavities. 

Crowded teeth: Even though braces in your teens might have corrected overcrowding, you might notice your teeth are looking too tight again. While the appearance of this overcrowding might not bother you, it can lead to trouble flossing and brushing, as it is hard to adequately clean between the teeth. 

Pain or discomfort: If you feel pain or discomfort when chewing, you might benefit from a second round of braces. Pain is often associated with teeth being in the wrong position, leading to unnecessary pressure on certain parts of your mouth and jaw. By straightening your teeth, you can correct these bite issues, eliminating much of the pain.

Overlapping teeth: If you notice teeth overlapping each other on the top or bottom of your mouth, you probably need braces again. This indicates you have an over or underbite, which can lead to trouble brushing and flossing, and cause gum disease or cavities. It can also cause jaw pain and issues with swallowing. 

While the thought of having orthodontic treatment again can be overwhelming, Bruno Orthodontics will make the process as easy as possible. Contact us today for a free consultation, so we can determine the best course of treatment for you.