Can I consider further treatment if I’m not satisfied with my smile after [braces are off]?

braces

LAST UPDATED: APRIL 24, 2018

Can I consider further treatment if I’m not satisfied with my smile after braces are off?

When you approached your orthodontist about braces or Invisalign, you did it because you want a straighter, prettier smile. You want more confidence, and you want to fix what you perceive are imperfections in your mouth. It’s not unreasonable, and your orthodontist was likely very happy to help you choose a solution to fix your smile. Your ortho explained to you your smile would not be 100% perfect following the use of either method, but that your smile would be better.

Now your braces are off or your Invisalign needs are no more, and you’re so excited to see the final result and your new smile. Unfortunately, you’re not entirely satisfied. You thought it would be better. You envisioned it differently in your mind. Your ortho’s warnings fell on deaf ears when you assumed some people might not like their results, but your smile would surely turn out perfect. It happens, and it happens more than you imagine. What can you do about it?

FAQ

What Options Do You Have?

If you wore braces and want to discuss the use of Invisalign with your ortho once you’re dissatisfied with your smile, you might be disappointed. Brackets and aligners work the same way to straighten your teeth. The only difference is one is affixed permanently to your teeth while it does the work and the other is removable. You might not get the option to use one after the other failed to provide the results you were hoping for because that’s not how it works in every situation.

You do have options, however. You can speak to your ortho about how you feel. Discuss in-depth what it is about your smile you’re not satisfied with, and see what options are available. There might be other issues you’re concerned with, and you might find there are options available to help you further appreciate your smile such as continuing the same treatment method or contacting a cosmetic dentist.

If it really is the straightness of your teeth that didn’t change as you were hoping, your doctor might allow you to put the brackets back on to keep straightening them. There are some occasions when your brackets simply came off too early and left you without the intended results. If you used aligners incorrectly, you might need them longer. It’s easy to do this with aligners as they are so easily removable. If you don’t follow the ortho’s usage instructions, you might find you don’t like your results.

Cosmetic Dentistry

If your teeth are straight but there are other issues upsetting you, your ortho might recommend you see a cosmetic dentist. Some people realize when their teeth are finally straight it’s the size, shape, or even size of their gums they don’t like. Some people realize their teeth just aren’t very white. Other people want more options. A cosmetic dentist can enhance your ortho’s work by allowing you to get the shade of white you desire or by changing the shape of your teeth.

Teeth Move Over Time

Another problem some people face is the realization their teeth are crooked once again as they get older. The simple fact is teeth shift over time, and this is a real problem. If you get older and notice your teeth are shifting back into a crooked place, you can call your ortho to discuss the problems. Some people end up wearing brackets or aligners a second time later in life. There is nothing wrong with this, and it’s not the fault of the ortho or even your own fault it happened.

You might not even notice your teeth are shifting over the years until your ortho mentions it at an appointment. He or she might use this opportunity to discuss your oral healthcare needs and suggest correction methods you can use. You probably don’t want to go through this again, but your straight smile might be worth it in the long run.

Listen to Your Ortho

You just never know if you’ll be entirely satisfied with the results of any straightening techniques. You spend months wondering what your smile will look like as you wear brackets or aligners, but you just don’t know until they come off. If you’re not satisfied, you do need to ask yourself if this is your own fault. Did you follow instructions? Did you see the ortho every time you were scheduled? Did you care for your aligners and wear them as you were instructed?

If you listen to your ortho carefully, you can increase the chances of liking your new smile when your brackets come off. Don’t panic if you don’t. Talk it through, be honest, and ask what options are available to you. Most people find there are additional techniques available to them that work, and few people are left completely dissatisfied.

Schedule an Orthodontic Examination in Larkspur Today

In Marin County, Calif., you can visit Gorton & Schmohl Orthodontics to have an examination and treatment from these professionals:

• Dr. Jasmine Gorton
• Dr. Bill Schmohl

An orthodontist will discuss orthodontic options with you to repair problems such as crowded teeth, crossbites or overbites. Depending on your malocclusions, you can wear one of these devices:

• Retainers
• Invisalign
• WildSmiles
• Braces with colors
• Traditional or Damon Clear

We also offer WowSmiles and Acceledent options to our orthodontic patients. Schedule an appointment by calling 415-459-8006 today.

Gorton & Schmohl Orthodontics
900 Larkspur Landing Circle,Suite 200 Larkspur CA 94939 Tel: (415)-459-8006

Can I consider further treatment if I’m not satisfied with my smile after braces are off?