Teeth Moving After Braces? Here’s What You Should Know
Getting your braces off is a major milestone and finally seeing your straight, healthy smile is worth celebrating. But your orthodontic journey isn’t quite over yet. Wearing your retainer is the final and most important step to ensure your teeth stay in their new position.
At Beecroft Orthodontics, serving Fredericksburg and North Stafford, we know many patients have questions about what happens after braces, especially if they start to notice changes in their smile. Let’s walk through what’s normal, why some movement happens, and what to do if you’re concerned.
Is Some Tooth Movement Normal After Braces?
Yes. It’s completely normal to experience a small amount of shifting right after your braces are removed. This period is known as the “settling phase.”
Here’s why it happens:
Your gums and supporting tissues are adjusting to the new tooth positions
Without wires and brackets, your teeth can settle into a more natural alignment
Improved access to oral hygiene can lead to healthier, more responsive gum tissue
Most of this shifting occurs in the back teeth or sides. The front teeth—what most people notice first—should remain mostly unchanged if you’re wearing your retainer as instructed.
Other Reasons Teeth May Shift After Orthodontic Treatment
Even with consistent retainer wear, some factors can lead to slight changes over time. These include:
🔸 Growth and Development
If you’re still growing, your jaw may change shape, which can affect your bite and tooth alignment.
🔸 Tongue Pressure
Habits like pushing your tongue against your teeth can gradually move them out of place.
🔸 Aging
Just like the rest of your body, your mouth changes over time. Natural jaw movement and tissue changes can lead to subtle adjustments in tooth position.
The key is to avoid unnecessary pressure on your teeth and keep up with regular orthodontic checkups.
Should I Keep Wearing My Retainer?
Removeable essix retainer
Absolutely. Your retainer is the best way to preserve your results. At Beecroft Orthodontics, we recommend wearing your retainer exactly as prescribed by your orthodontist, whether that’s full-time initially or just at night long-term.
If your retainer starts to feel tight or uncomfortable—or your teeth look like they’ve moved—schedule a visit. In many cases, a new or adjusted retainer can help prevent further shifting.
When to Contact Beecroft Orthodontics
If you're concerned about movement, especially in your front teeth, don’t wait. The sooner we evaluate your smile, the more options we have to help. A quick adjustment to your treatment plan or a replacement retainer might be all you need.
Visit Our Fredericksburg or North Stafford Office
At Beecroft Orthodontics, we’re committed to helping you keep the smile you worked so hard for. Whether you’re just finishing treatment or years into wearing your retainer, our team is here to support you every step of the way.
📍 Beecroft Orthodontics – Fredericksburg Office
11113 Leavells Rd, Fredericksburg, VA 22407
📞 Call: (540) 898-2200
📍 Beecroft Orthodontics – North Stafford Office
243 Garrisonville rd Suite 201 Stafford, VA 22554
📞 Call: (540) 898-2200
👉 Contact us today to schedule a retainer check or consultation. Your smile deserves lifelong care.