Teeth Shifting After Braces? Adult Options in Scranton
You wore braces as a teen. You loved your smile. Then life got busy, the retainer ended up in a drawer somewhere, and now you’re noticing a tooth or two drifting out of line. Sound familiar?
You’re definitely not alone. At Runco Perih Orthodontics, we help adults from Scranton, Dickson City and across Lackawanna County get their smiles back on track, often in less time than you’d expect.
Key Takeaways
- Teeth can shift after orthodontic treatment, especially when retainers aren’t worn consistently.
- Shifting is common and fixable.
- Smile Enhancements are shorter, targeted Invisalign programs for minor relapse.
- Adults can choose Invisalign, metal braces or clear braces.
- We offer private treatment rooms for adults who prefer a quieter setting.
Quick Facts
| Topic | What You Should Know |
|---|---|
| Common cause of shifting | Not wearing retainers after previous treatment |
| Fix for minor shifting | Smile Enhancements, a shorter Invisalign program |
| Adult treatment options | Invisalign, metal braces, clear (ceramic) braces |
| Typical full treatment time | 12 to 24 months, with some simple cases in as few as six months |
| Adult comfort | Private treatment rooms and efficient appointments |
| Consultation | Complimentary, no referral needed |
Why Do Teeth Shift After Braces?
Teeth shift after braces mainly because retainers stop getting worn. Once braces come off, retainers hold your teeth in their new positions while the surrounding bone and tissue settle. Without that support, teeth can gradually drift back toward where they started.
Your teeth also naturally change a bit over the years. That’s why a long-term retainer plan matters so much, even decades after treatment.
The good news? Shifting doesn’t erase your original treatment. It usually means a shorter path back to the smile you had.
What Are Smile Enhancements?
Smile Enhancements are shorter, more targeted Invisalign programs designed for adults with minor orthodontic relapse. They correct small amounts of crowding, spacing or shifting without putting you through a full course of treatment again.
The timeline is typically much shorter than your original treatment. And because Invisalign aligners are clear and removable, most people won’t even know you’re wearing them.
Here’s how it works:
- Complimentary consultation: Dr. Runco evaluates what’s changed since your previous treatment.
- Digital scan: Our iTero scanner maps your teeth in 3D, no messy impressions.
- Custom plan: You’ll see a preview of your planned tooth movements.
- Aligner wear: You’ll swap to a new set of aligners about once a week.
- Retention: We’ll set you up with a retainer plan to protect your results going forward.
Learn more about Invisalign for adults.
What if the Shifting Is More Than Minor?
Sometimes shifting goes beyond a quick touch-up, and that’s OK. Adults can get full orthodontic treatment at any age as long as their teeth and gums are healthy.
For more involved cases, you have a few options:
- Invisalign can treat crowding, spacing and many bite issues, including overbite, underbite, crossbite and open bite.
- Metal braces are the most time-tested and cost-effective option, with smaller, lower-profile brackets than you might remember.
- Clear braces use tooth-colored ceramic brackets for a more discreet look with the precision of braces.
Dr. Runco will walk you through which option fits your bite, your goals and your lifestyle. Read more about adult orthodontic treatment.
Can a Shifted Bite Affect Jaw Comfort?
It can. Bite misalignment is one of several factors that can contribute to TMJ symptoms like jaw pain, headaches, trouble chewing and a jaw that clicks or pops.
If you’re dealing with jaw discomfort along with shifting teeth, mention it at your consultation. We take a comprehensive approach to evaluating your bite, jaw function and muscle activity, and Dr. Runco will recommend a plan based on your specific diagnosis. Learn more about TMJ treatment.
A Comfortable Experience Built for Adults
We know adults have different expectations for orthodontic care. That’s why we offer private treatment rooms where you can receive care in a comfortable, quiet setting separate from our younger patients. Appointments are efficient, and our virtual care program for Invisalign patients means fewer trips to the office.
And once your treatment wraps up, we offer professional teeth whitening to give your finished smile a bright, polished look.
Keeping Your Smile Straight This Time
Your retainer is the unsung hero of your smile. After your treatment, Dr. Runco will recommend a retainer plan designed to protect your results for years to come. Follow it, and you’ll keep enjoying your smile long after treatment ends.
FAQs
Locations We Serve
Dunmore, PA · Scranton, PA · Dickson City, PA · Clarks Summit, PA · Moscow, PA · Throop, PA · Olyphant, PA · Archbald, PA · Jessup, PA · Carbondale, PA · Taylor, PA · Moosic, PA · Old Forge, PA · Pittston, PA · Wilkes-Barre, PA · North Pocono · Lackawanna County · Luzerne County · Northeastern Pennsylvania and surrounding areas
Get Your Smile Back on Track
If your teeth have moved, we’ll help you figure out what’s changed and give you a clear plan to fix it. Schedule your complimentary consultation today by calling (570) 969-9650 or texting (570) 215-9606.