Many people often ask, “Can I get Invisalign if I had braces before? ” This is a very common question! Sometimes, teeth move after braces, or people want a different look. This blog will give you some insight into why teeth shift, how Invisalign near you works following braces for patients, and why many people have decided to have it as a second phase of their treatment.
Why Teeth Can Move After Braces
Even if you wore braces in the past, your teeth can move over time. This is called orthodontic relapse. It happens when you don’t wear your retainer or when your teeth naturally shift due to aging or habits like clenching or grinding.
Some common reasons why teeth move:
- Not wearing your retainer regularly
- Natural changes in your mouth as you age
- Tooth loss or gum problems
- Pressure from habits like nail-biting or tongue thrusting
Even a small shift in your teeth can make your bite feel different or make your smile look uneven.
What Is Invisalign?
Invisalign is a clear aligner system used to straighten teeth. These aligners are made of smooth, clear plastic. They are custom-made for your teeth. You wear them over your teeth, and they slowly move your teeth into better positions.
You take the aligners out when you eat, brush, or floss. This makes them easier to manage than traditional braces. Most people wear them for 20 to 22 hours a day.
Can Invisalign Help If You Had Braces Before?
Yes, Invisalign is often used for people who have had braces in the past but now have teeth that shifted. Many adults return to the dentist near you years later because their smile no longer looks or feels right. Invisalign can fix small or moderate movement that happened after braces.
Dentists use Invisalign to fix problems like:
- Crowding
- Spacing
- Slight bite problems
- Teeth that moved back to old positions
Even if you had metal braces as a child, Invisalign can be used to correct issues now. It’s especially popular with adults who want a clear, less visible option.
Is Invisalign Better Than Getting Braces Again?
For many people, Invisalign in New Westminster after braces is a better choice than getting traditional braces again. Here’s why:
- Less noticeable: Invisalign trays are clear, so most people won’t notice them.
- Comfortable: No metal wires or brackets that can poke or irritate your mouth.
- Removable: You can take the trays out to eat or clean your teeth.
- Shorter treatment time: Some people only need to wear Invisalign for a few months to fix minor shifts.
However, Invisalign may not work for everyone. If your teeth have moved a lot or if you have complex bite problems, your dentist may recommend other treatment options.
What Should You Do First?
If you’re thinking about Invisalign and had braces before, the first step is to visit a dentist at a dental clinic near you. They will check your teeth, ask about your dental history, and take X-rays or digital scans of your mouth.
From there, they will let you know if Invisalign is right for you. If it is, they’ll create a custom treatment plan.
Benefits of Choosing Invisalign After Braces
There are many good reasons to choose Invisalign treatment after braces:
- Helps fix teeth that moved out of place
- Gives you a straighter smile again
- Easy to clean and maintain
- Fits better into adult lifestyles
- Can be more comfortable than metal braces
Also, because you’ve had braces before, your teeth might not need as much work this time. This means a faster treatment plan and fewer appointments.
What Happens If You Don’t Treat Shifted Teeth?
If you don’t treat teeth that moved after braces, it can lead to bigger problems later. Some of these include:
- Bite problems
- Jaw pain
- Tooth wear
- Difficulty cleaning teeth properly
Straight teeth are not just about looks. They are also easier to keep healthy. So, getting Invisalign can protect your long-term dental health.
When Can’t You Get Invisalign After Braces?
Most people can use Invisalign after braces. Sometimes, if your teeth or gums are not healthy or your condition is too complex, your dentist may not recommend Invisalign. Some cases may need other treatments.
Is Invisalign Safe and Effective After Braces?
Yes, Invisalign is very safe and works well for many people who have had braces. It’s important to see a trained dentist for this treatment. Always follow dental instructions for the best results.
Straighten Your Smile with Invisalign!
At Belmont Dental Centre, our dentist offers Invisalign to help gently move your teeth into the right position. Invisalign is clear, removable, and more comfortable than metal braces. It’s a good choice for teens and adults who want a straighter smile without wires. Our team of dentists in New Westminster will guide you through each step of your treatment. Call Belmont Dental Centre today to book a visit.