Teeth Shifting After Braces
Conditions We Treat with Premium Invisible Aligners
Teeth shifting after braces, known as orthodontic relapse, is extremely common. Even after years of wearing traditional braces, teeth can gradually drift back toward their original positions if retainers are not worn consistently. This shifting can begin within months—or even weeks—after braces are removed, and often becomes more noticeable over time.
At Pro Aligners, orthodontic relapse is one of the most frequent conditions we treat. Our advanced clear aligner systems are specially designed to correct post-braces movement, realign the teeth comfortably, and help maintain long-term results with proper retention. For many patients, aligners offer a discreet, fast and highly effective way to restore the straight smile they once had.
What Causes Teeth to Shift After Braces?
Teeth move naturally throughout life, but several factors can accelerate shifting after orthodontic treatment.
1. Not Wearing Retainers
This is the No. 1 cause of relapse. Teeth have a natural tendency to return to their pre-braces position, and without consistent retainer use, they often drift.
2. Ageing and Natural Tooth Movement
As we age, the jaw shape, gum support and bite pressure all change. This can cause lower front teeth to crowd or tip forward later in life.
3. Grinding or Clenching (Bruxism)
Constant pressure from grinding can push teeth forward or cause them to move unevenly.
4. Gum Disease
Loss of supporting tissues makes teeth more mobile and susceptible to shifting.
5. Growth and Development Changes
Late jaw growth can affect alignment, especially in teens who finished treatment early.
6. Tooth Loss
When a tooth is missing, surrounding teeth drift into the space, altering overall alignment.
7. Trauma
Accidents or blows to the teeth can instantly or gradually shift tooth position.
Common Signs of Orthodontic Relapse
Relapse can be mild or significant, and may occur even if you wore braces years ago. Common symptoms include:
- Teeth becoming crooked again
- Crowding returning, especially in lower front teeth
- Spaces reappearing
- Bite no longer feeling even
- Teeth rotating out of position
- Upper and lower teeth not meeting as they used to
- Difficulty flossing due to tighter spaces
- Aesthetic concerns when smiling
Even small shifts can affect the look of your smile and your bite function.
Why You Should Treat Teeth Shifting Early
Correcting relapse early prevents more complex issues from developing.
Oral Health Problems
- Plaque accumulation in newly crowded areas
- Higher risk of gum inflammation
- Difficulties cleaning rotated or tight spaces
Functional & Aesthetic Issues
- Uneven wear
- Bite misalignment
- Clicking or strain in the jaw
- A smile losing its ideal shape
- Teeth appearing uneven or unbalanced
Addressing relapse as soon as possible ensures faster, simpler and more predictable correction.
Can Clear Aligners Fix Teeth Shifting After Braces?
Absolutely. Clear aligners are one of the most effective treatments for orthodontic relapse. They are ideal because they correct mild to moderate shifting quickly, refine both alignment and bite, and are discreet, comfortable and removable.
Most relapse cases require far shorter treatment times than first-time orthodontic patients.
How Pro Aligners Treat Orthodontic Relapse
Our approach combines digital technology, expert planning and careful bite evaluation.
3D Digital Scan
We capture a precise model of your current bite. This allows us to compare your alignment now with how it should ideally look.
Custom Treatment Plan
Our clinicians design a tailored plan to move each tooth into the correct position. Mild relapse cases often require fewer aligners and quicker movements.
Sequential Aligners
Each aligner gently guides the teeth into the correct alignment. Most patients change aligners every 7–10 days.
Refinements Included
Pro Aligners includes unlimited refinements, ensuring that even very small adjustments are perfected.
Bite Correction (If Needed)
Relapse sometimes affects the bite. Our treatment can also correct deep bites, open bites, crossbites, and overjets.
Retainers to Prevent Future Shifting
At completion, you receive two free retainers. Long-term retainer use is essential to maintain your corrected alignment.
Who Is Suitable for Relapse Treatment?
Most orthodontic relapse cases are ideal candidates for clear aligner treatment. You may be suitable if:
- You had braces in the past
- Your teeth have shifted recently
- You stopped wearing your retainers
- Your lower front teeth have crowded
- Your bite no longer feels even
- You want a quick, discreet solution
How Long Does Relapse Treatment Take?
Relapse treatment tends to be quicker than full orthodontic correction. Most cases take:
4 to 10 months
Mild cases can complete even sooner.
Why Choose Pro Aligners for Orthodontic Relapse?
Expert-led treatment
By aligner dentists
Fast and predictable
Correction of shifting
Discrete
Removable aligners
Unlimited refinements
Included for perfection
Complimentary Extras Included:
Start Your Smile Assessment Today
Orthodontic relapse is extremely common — but completely treatable. If your teeth have shifted after braces, Pro Aligners can restore your straight, balanced smile quickly and discreetly.
Find out how Pro Aligners can correct shifting teeth and stabilise your results long-term.
Contact Us
We're here to help you achieve your perfect smile. Reach out to us today.
Call Us
020 3137 5212Email Us
info@proaligners.co.ukVisit Our Clinic
20 Old Brompton Road
South Kensington, London
SW7 3DL
- Monday9am - 6pm
- Tuesday9am - 8pm
- Wednesday9am - 6pm
- Thursday9am - 8pm
- Friday8am - 5pm
- Saturday10am - 4pm
- SundayClosed
How to find us
We are conveniently located in the heart of South Kensington, just a short walk from the station. Our clinic is easily accessible via public transport from all parts of London.
Nearest Tube Station
South Kensington (1 min walk)
Bus Routes
Stops nearby: 14, 49, 70, 74, 345, 360, 414, 430, C1
Parking
Pay & Display parking is available on Old Brompton Road. Nearest car park: Harrington Road Car Park (5 min walk).
Regulated & Registered
ProAligners is proudly part of Medical and Dental Ltd. registered with the UK's leading healthcare regulatory bodies, ensuring the highest standards of care, safety, and professionalism.
