Clear aligners are becoming a popular choice for orthodontic treatment because they offer a discreet and comfortable alternative to traditional braces. While they’re great for starting treatment, they’re also handy for fixing cases where teeth have started to shift back after treatment—a situation known as orthodontic relapse. This can be frustrating for many, but don’t worry! Clear aligners provide a convenient way to fix minor to moderate shifts in your smile.

What is orthodontic relapse?

Orthodontic relapse happens when teeth move back to their original positions after treatment. This can be caused by various reasons, like genetics, not wearing retainers, or not following the aftercare instructions. Some people may need to wear retainers longer or get extra treatment to keep their smiles looking great, especially if they have a genetic tendency for their teeth to shift.

Retention is an important part of orthodontic care since it helps keep teeth stable in their new positions. Retainers, whether fixed or removable, play a key role in preventing relapse, but getting patients to wear them consistently can sometimes be a challenge.

How Clear Aligners Help with Relapse

Clear aligners come with some fantastic benefits for addressing orthodontic relapse:

• Discreet: They are almost invisible, so you can work on your smile without anyone noticing.
• Comfortable: Made from smooth, BPA-free plastic, they won’t irritate your gums or cheeks.
• Convenient: You can easily remove them when eating or drinking, and they make brushing and flossing a breeze.
• Precise: Each aligner is custom-made for your unique dental structure, ensuring effective tooth movement and minimising any side effects.
• Efficient: Many cases of minor to moderate relapse can often be resolved within 6 to 12 months (this can vary).

The treatment journey with clear aligners

Here’s a simple breakdown of what to expect when using clear aligners for relapse:

1. Initial Consultation: Our dentist will check your teeth and bite to see how much they’ve shifted and if clear aligners are right for you.
2. Digital Impressions: Advanced 3D scanning creates a detailed model of your teeth to plan your treatment.
3. Treatment Planning: Our dentist here at Mint Dental will develop a personalised plan, outlining what movements your teeth need and how many aligners you’ll need.
4. Aligner Fabrication: A series of clear aligners are made using your digital model. Each one will gently shift your teeth into place.
5. Wearing Aligners: You’ll wear each aligner for around 1-2 weeks before switching to the next one, gradually moving your teeth into the desired position.
6. Retention: Once you finish with the aligners, you’ll get retainers to help keep your new smile in place. This step is crucial for long-term success!

Keys to success with clear aligners for relapse

Here are a few important factors that make clear aligner treatment effective:

• Early Detection: Spotting a relapse early is key to fixing it quickly. Regular dental check-ups can help you catch any shifts in time.
• Patient Compliance: Sticking to the treatment plan is essential. Make sure to wear your aligners as directed and attend all follow-up appointments.
• Advanced Technology: Using the latest tools and technology ensures precise treatment planning and aligner creation. At Mint Dental, we use Angel Aligners.

Their discreetness, comfort, and convenience make clear aligners a favourite among patients looking for a gentle way to perfect their smiles. By understanding what causes relapse and following a solid treatment plan, you can achieve a stunning smile that lasts for years to come!

If you think that clear aligners may be a good solution for you, schedule a consultation with one of our experienced dentists here at Mint Dental so that we can assess your situation and discuss your options.