Can rebracing treat the orthodontic relapse caused after removing a permanent retainer?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am 53 years old. I had my permanent retainers removed six months ago, after 26 years. My lower front teeth are flaring out. They are hitting the back of my upper front teeth. I am a tongue thruster. Can I have these teeth that had the retainer removed, rebraced, and another permanent retainer?

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern. Yes, you can get the particular segment of teeth re-braced and later a permanent retainer. However, you can also have other options to consider before deciding on the treatment option. Before that, we should initially check for trauma from occlusion (TFO), which is due to lower teeth hitting the upper teeth on the backside. If it is continuously hitting, there could be three possibilities: you have a deep bite, or there is not a sufficient gap between the upper and lower teeth, or lower teeth are more proclined than they should be, which is causing the hitting of teeth. Regarding orthodontic treatment options, I suggest the following re-bracing, aligners, reshaping. Once the condition is resolved, you can go for permanent retainers. Accordingly, you can look for pros and cons and decide which treatment options best suit your case. I hope this helps. Thank you and take care.