I’ve Had Braces Before— Can I Get Them Again?

The day people get their braces off is filled with emotion: pride at their achievement, amazement at how wonderful their new smile looks, and relief at the hardest part of their orthodontic treatment finally being over. If you’ve had braces in the past, you might remember what this felt like.

You might have also noticed your smile change a little bit since then. Many patients see their smiles come out of alignment in the years after braces, leading them to wonder whether it’s possible to pursue orthodontic treatment once again. Here’s what you should know about that prospect if you’re in that situation. 

Can I Get Braces Twice?

It’s absolutely possible to get braces again if you’ve had them in the past. There’s no age limit to the treatment, so if you’ve seen your smile come out of alignment in the years since your last orthodontic it’s an option worth considering.

In fact, treatment may even be easier this time around, depending on the state of your smile. While adults’ teeth are slower to move than those of adolescents, having had braces in the past likely addressed many of the largest issues with your smile, making any further treatment easier.

Why Do Teeth Come Out of Alignment?

There are a few reasons why your teeth could come out of alignment in the years after your orthodontic treatment. Many people aren’t as diligent with wearing their retainer as they should be, meaning that their still-mobile teeth come out of position after their braces come off.

If you’ve lost teeth since your last orthodontic treatment, this can also cause broader alignment issues that may need to be addressed by a second round of braces.

Signs That You May Need Braces Again

Signs that someone who previously had braces may need them again include teeth shifting out of alignment, crowding, or gaps reappearing. If the bite feels uneven or causes discomfort, it might indicate changes in the jaw or teeth positioning. Difficulty in cleaning teeth, increased plaque buildup, or gum issues could also suggest a need for realignment. Additionally, if teeth grinding, jaw pain, or clicking noises when chewing develop, these could be signs that the bite has changed, possibly requiring further orthodontic treatment. Regular dental check-ups can help assess these changes.

About Our Practice

At Anderson Dental Center, we work hard to ensure that every patient we see leaves with the smile of their dreams, no matter their age or their oral health history. Whether you’re coming to us for orthodontics or something else entirely, we will make sure that the care you receive from us is thorough and personalized throughout every step of the process.

If you have any questions about braces, we can be reached at our website or by phone at (201) 546-7435.