Orthodontic treatment, such as braces, is an effective way to achieve straight teeth and a healthy smile. When an individual’s teeth are overcrowded, it can cause a wide range of problems including difficulty talking and eating. Although many individuals feel that braces can treat crooked teeth in a few months, the process takes much longer. Aside from braces, individuals may also need retainers or other orthodontic appliances.
Flared teeth can sometimes occur when an individual has his or her braces removed. When an individual has protruding teeth after having his or her braces removed, the teeth will stick out slightly, which will give a flared appearance. Although braces can cause teeth to flare, they are still an orthodontic treatment that provides a wide range of benefits. Not only do braces improve an individual’s self-confidence, they also correct any oral problems such as overbites, underbites, and crowding. If you are wondering how to fix flared teeth after braces, here is some helpful information:
Braces and Flared Teeth
Many individuals have flared teeth after braces, which can lead to the question, is a flared set of teeth normal after braces? Although braces put some wear on the teeth to get them aligned properly, the teeth may move together and outward during the process and cause a flared appearance. However, flared teeth after braces are simple to remedy. An orthodontist can help to fix flared teeth after braces.
Is a Flared Set of Teeth Normal After Braces?
Flared teeth after braces are more typical than most individuals may think. Many individuals who undergo orthodontic treatment may assume that just because they are getting braces, their teeth will be straight without imperfections. However, this isn’t always true, and individuals will need to wear retainers after they have their braces removed. When individuals wear retainers as suggested by an orthodontist, the retainers will adjust the teeth and eliminate the flared look.
How to Fix Flared Teeth After Braces
Many orthodontists will initially fit patients for a retainer that will treat flared teeth. A retainer is an effective orthodontic appliance that will push teeth back so they don’t flare outwards. Many teenagers and adolescents are self-conscious about having flared teeth after braces, so encouraging them to wear their retainers will help adjust their teeth and improve self-confidence. In fact, an orthodontist may recommend certain individuals come in several times to have their retainers adjusted to continue to fix flared teeth.
After braces are removed, an orthodontic professional will develop an aftercare treatment plan that must be followed to continue to correct the position of the teeth. An orthodontist will evaluate the effectiveness of the braces by taking an X-ray or an impression of the bite. In addition, when the patients are teenagers or adolescents, an orthodontist may perform an evaluation to determine if the wisdom teeth have moved. If there has been the growth of the wisdom teeth, an orthodontist may recommend they be removed to maintain proper alignment of the teeth.
Retainers
It is natural for the teeth to shift as an individual grows and ages, which is also true for those who have been treated with braces. A retainer is an important orthodontic appliance that is customized to an individual’s teeth and mouth to keep the teeth properly aligned. There are two variations of retainers that are removable and fixed, and each one has certain benefits to offer patients.
Team Demas Orthodontics – Can Retainers Fix a Slight Shift of Teeth After Braces?
Removable Retainers
Removable retainers can be removed and put back into position, but in order for removable retainers to be effective, they must be used as suggested by an orthodontic professional. There are two types of removable retainers that are known as Hawley and clear plastics.
Hawley
Hawley retainers contain a metal wire that is bonded with an acrylic instrument and fitted to the roof of the patient’s mouth. When the retainer is properly placed into position, it will run across the front of the teeth and keep them aligned. Although this type of retainer is easy to use, it is more noticeable than other types of retainers and may be uncomfortable for some.
Clear Plastic
A clear plastic retainer is also known as a vacuum-formed retainer. This type of retainer is made of plastic that fits over the teeth and is nearly invisible. Many people prefer this type of removable retainer as opposed to a Hawley retainer, but clear plastic retainers do not allow the teeth to touch and are not able to be adjusted.
Fixed Retainers
A fixed retainer is a permanent wire that will run along that back of individuals teeth and will be set with a bonding glue. Although fixed retainers are virtually invisible when compared to other retainers, individuals with fixed retainers may have difficulty flossing their teeth. It is also important to note that fixed retainers are permanently bonded by an orthodontic professional, so an individual should always consult an orthodontist to have them removed. If an individual attempts to remove a fixed retainer on his or her own, it could permanently damage the teeth.
How Long Should a Retainer be Worn?
How long does it take to correct flared teeth after braces? Because each individual’s treatment plan is unique to their circumstances, the time a retainer is worn will vary from person to person. Most patients will be advised to wear their retainer all day for several months after having braces removed. It is important to wear your retainer as long as advised by an orthodontist. Those who fail to follow their orthodontist recommendations may have orthodontic problems surface years after their braces were removed. Although retainers take time to get used to and can be a nuisance, such as when sleeping, they are the most effective way to treat flared teeth.
The Importance of Follow-Up Appointments
Many individuals ask their orthodontist, how long does it take to correct flared teeth after braces? One important factor is follow-up care. The removal of braces is a big step in an individual’s orthodontic treatment plan, but treatment isn’t finished when braces are removed. Although the removal of braces is thought of as the final step in the correction phase, the retention phase is just as important for maintaining a straight set of teeth. Visiting an orthodontist for routine follow-up visits is an integral part of treatment. Follow-up visits allow an orthodontist to examine the teeth to see if any adjustments need to be made.
Contact Our Orthodontic Office Today
If you want to know more about how to treat flared teeth after braces, contact us today. The friendly staff and professionals at our orthodontic office are always free to answer any questions you may have about orthodontic treatment.
Team Demas Orthodontics
27 Meriden Ave #2a, Southington, CT 06489, USA
Phone: 860-276-0333
How Do I Fix My Flared Teeth [After] Braces?
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