Can Aligners Fix Teeth That Have Shifted?
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Can Clear Aligners Fix Teeth That Have Shifted After Braces?
If your teeth have started to shift out of alignment after past orthodontic treatment, you’re not alone. Many people experience orthodontic relapse—when teeth slowly move back to their original positions—especially if they haven’t worn their retainers consistently. Clear aligners are an excellent solution for correcting teeth that have shifted, helping restore your smile without the need for metal braces. Whether it’s been months or years since your previous treatment, aligners offer a discreet, comfortable way to get back on track.
Why Do Teeth Shift After Braces?
Even after successful orthodontic treatment, your teeth are still held in place by ligaments and soft tissue that remember their old positions. Without retention (wearing a retainer), those teeth can slowly drift back due to:
Forgetting to wear your retainer regularly
Changes in bite pressure from chewing or grinding
Natural aging and shifting of bone structure
Wisdom teeth eruption
Minor trauma or tooth loss
Gum recession or bone loss affecting support
Shifting can lead to misalignment, bite issues, and a return of cosmetic concerns you thought were fixed.
How Aligners Correct Post-Treatment Shifting
Clear aligners like Invisalign work by applying gentle, consistent pressure to guide teeth back into their proper positions. If you’ve had braces or aligners in the past, a new set of aligners can often:
Realign teeth that have shifted slightly
Close small gaps that reopened
Correct minor crowding or spacing
Improve the overall bite and smile symmetry
Aligner relapse treatment is typically faster and more focused than first-time treatment—especially if caught early.
What to Expect from Relapse Correction
✔ Treatment Time
Many relapse cases can be corrected in as little as 3 to 9 months, depending on the extent of the movement.
✔ Fewer Aligners
Because the changes are more subtle, you’ll likely need fewer trays and shorter overall treatment.
✔ Attachments (Optional)
Small tooth-colored attachments may be used for more precise control, but they’re removable and discreet.
✔ Retainers After Treatment
After realignment, long-term retainer wear is essential to prevent another relapse.
Why Aligners Are Ideal for Relapse Cases
Clear aligners are especially well-suited for relapse because they’re:
Discreet – virtually invisible while worn
Removable – take them out for meals and hygiene
Comfortable – no metal brackets or wires
Targeted – designed specifically for your current concerns
Efficient – especially effective for minor to moderate shifts
They’re perfect for adults or teens who want to refine their smile without restarting full orthodontic treatment.
Dr. Bak’s Expertise in Relapse Correction
With over 25 years of experience, Dr. Bak Nguyen has helped hundreds of patients regain their confident smiles after relapse. Using advanced digital imaging and custom treatment plans, he ensures that your aligners are both effective and comfortable.
Book a free virtual consultation to learn more about your case, its treatment time and cost with Dr Bak Nguyen (the real one).
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