Many adults who had braces as teenagers find themselves facing a familiar problem: their teeth have shifted back to their original positions. At Bespoke Smile, 68% of our Invisalign cases involve adults whose teeth relapsed because retainers were not worn consistently after their first orthodontic treatment.
This blog explores why a second round of braces or Invisalign might be necessary, what causes relapse, and what treatment options are available for adults seeking a straighter smile.
Can you get braces twice?
Yes, you can get braces again if you have had them previously. If your teeth have changed since you first had braces, you might want to consider treatment again. These changes could include:
- Crowding or overlapping
- Reopened gaps
- Your bite feels different or uncomfortable
- You are self-conscious about your smile
A consultation with a dentist or orthodontist can determine the severity of the relapse and the most effective treatment plan.
Why do teeth relapse after braces?
Braces and aligners are effective at moving teeth into the desired position, but teeth are naturally prone to movement over time, and muscle memory wants your teeth to move back to their original position. The jaw and gums can exert forces that slowly shift teeth if retainers are not worn as prescribed.
Common reasons for relapse include:
- Inconsistent retainer use: Skipping nights or only wearing a retainer sporadically.
- Growth changes: Even small changes in the jawline during adulthood can affect tooth alignment.
- Natural forces: Teeth are constantly influenced by chewing, tongue pressure, and other daily habits.
- Ageing of the jaw: We know that as we age, the jaw naturally shrinks slightly, which forces teeth to move forward and can contribute to relapse.
Relapse can range from minor crowding to more noticeable shifts that affect the bite, smile symmetry, and overall dental health.
Treatment options available
Invisalign
For adults, Invisalign is often the preferred option for a second round of orthodontics. Clear aligners are discreet, removable, and can effectively correct relapse without the need for traditional braces. At Bespoke Smile, Invisalign offers the following benefits:
- Nearly invisible, ideal for professional or social settings
- Removable for eating and cleaning
- Customised treatment plans for precise movement
Traditional braces
In some cases, traditional braces may still be recommended, especially for more complex relapses or bite issues. Modern braces are more discreet, smaller and more comfortable than in the past, and treatment times can be shorter than a full adolescent course.
Hybrid approaches
Some patients benefit from a combination of treatments, such as minor alignment with Invisalign followed by cosmetic enhancements like bonding or veneers to perfect the final smile.
How the process works
- Consultation: A full assessment of your teeth, bite, and relapse severity.
- Treatment plan: Choosing the appropriate appliance and mapping tooth movements.
- Appliance fitting: Placement of braces or custom aligners.
- Active treatment: Regular check-ins to monitor progress.
- Retention: Long-term retainer use to prevent further relapse.
Maintaining results after a second round
Retention is crucial for a second orthodontic treatment. Adults are strongly advised to wear retainers as prescribed, often for life, to maintain the results achieved. At Bespoke Smile, we provide guidance and customised retainers to ensure your investment in your smile through cosmetic braces is long-lasting.