Feb 25, 2025

Can your teeth shift back without retainers?

After months or even years of orthodontic treatment, you finally have the straight smile you’ve been waiting for. But what happens next? A common question we hear from patients is: "Will my teeth move back if I don’t wear my retainer?" The short answer is yes - without retainers, your teeth can shift over time. Let’s explore why this happens and how you can maintain your beautifully aligned smile.

Why do teeth move after orthodontic treatment?

Teeth are not fixed in place - they’re supported by bone and soft tissue, which means they can shift throughout your lifetime. After braces or aligners are removed, your teeth need time to settle into their new positions. This phase is known as the retention period, and without the right support, your teeth may start to drift back towards their original alignment. This process, known as orthodontic relapse, can start within weeks if retainers aren’t worn as directed.

The role of retainers in keeping teeth straight

Retainers are a crucial part of orthodontic treatment, helping to hold your teeth in place while your bones and gums adapt to their new positions. At Braces N Faces Orthodontics, we provide custom retainers to all our patients once their treatment is complete. There are two main types:

• Removable retainers - These are clear, custom-fit retainers that can be taken out when eating or brushing your teeth. They are easy to clean and perfect for long-term maintenance.
• Bonded retainers - These are fixed retainers, discreetly placed behind your front teeth to provide continuous support. Many patients opt for a bonded retainer as an extra safeguard against teeth shifting.

What happens if you don’t wear a retainer?

The question at hand - "Will my teeth move back without a retainer?" - is met with a definite yes. Research shows that teeth naturally have a tendency to shift over time, and without the right retention strategy, they can revert to their previous positions.

Factors that influence tooth movement:

• How long you go without a retainer - The longer you leave it, the more your teeth can shift.
• Your original alignment - Teeth that were significantly misaligned before treatment may be more prone to relapse.
• Your age - Younger patients may experience more movement as their bones are still developing.
• Daily habits - Clenching, grinding, and other oral habits can put extra pressure on your teeth, encouraging them to shift.

The consequences of not wearing a retainer

Skipping your retainer isn’t just about appearance - there are real consequences that come with shifting teeth, including:

• Bite issues – When teeth move, it can affect how your upper and lower teeth meet, potentially leading to jaw discomfort and misalignment.
• Uneven tooth wear – Misaligned teeth don’t distribute pressure evenly, which can cause premature enamel wear or even cracks.
• Gum health concerns – Teeth that move out of position may create tight spaces that trap plaque, increasing the risk of gum disease.

How long should you wear your retainer?

The good news is that keeping your smile straight is simple - all it takes is consistent retainer use. Orthodontists generally recommend:

• Full-time wear for the first 6 months after braces or aligners are removed.
• Night-time wear indefinitely to maintain your results long-term.
• Bonded retainers as a hassle-free, long-term solution for added security.

Final thoughts

The journey to a confident smile doesn’t stop when your braces come off - wearing your retainer is essential to keeping your teeth in place. So, can your teeth shift back without a retainer? Absolutely. But with the right retention plan, you can enjoy your beautifully straight smile for life.

At Braces N Faces Orthodontics, we help patients in Geelong and Hoppers Crossing maintain their results with custom-made retainers and expert advice. If you have questions about your retainer or think your teeth might be shifting, book a free consultation with our team today!