Did you have braces when you were a child? If so, you probably have healthy, straight teeth as a result. Right? Well, perhaps not anymore. Over time, your teeth can change once again if you don't wear your retainers regularly. That means you may be faced with needing braces a second time. Here are five signs that you may need to seek orthodontic care as an adult.

New Gaps

Believe it or not, you can get new gaps in your smile. Your teeth will continue to shift and move as you age, which can leave you with unwanted spaces if you do not wear your retainer as instructed. Your teeth should sit side by side with no overlaps or gaps for utmost comfort and functionality.

More Crowding

If you had crowded teeth when you were a child, you could experience more crowding as you get older, especially if you don’t wear a retainer at night. A retainer reinforces the work your braces did. Once you stop using one, your teeth will try to revert back to their former position over time. If you notice overlapping or it’s difficult to floss, crowding could be to blame.

Disease or Decay

81% of survey participants agree that orthodontic treatment isn’t only necessary to achieve straight teeth. In fact, many people seek orthodontic services because shifting teeth can cause gum disease or tooth decay. If your gums are inflamed or bleed easily, it could be a sign that your teeth are moving out of place.

Pain or Discomfort

Crooked teeth, misaligned teeth or a shifting bite can all cause pain or discomfort. If you notice soreness in your jaw, gums, or teeth, you should call an orthodontist. It could mean that you need braces again.

Trouble Speaking or Chewing

Trouble speaking or difficulty chewing food can be an indicator that your teeth are changing. In order to pronounce certain words or eat, your teeth need to line up properly.

Your Next Step

If you’re noticing any of these signs, you should contact an orthodontist to determine what your next step will be. If you need to get braces a second time, you will probably have different options than you had when you were a child. You may only need braces for a short duration or your orthodontist may have a different treatment option in mind. Now, you can even get easily removable clear aligners as opposed to traditional metal braces, which is what we specialize in here at Evenly.

Cost for Orthodontics

While the cost for orthodontics may be keeping you from scheduling an office visit, you should know that prices have changed since you had braces the first time. Clear aligners can be more cost-effective because they require fewer office visits and take less time to straighten than traditional braces. Here at Evenly, we even often remote monitoring so you don't have to come into the office for check-ups.

It’s not uncommon for former braces-wearers to experience a relapse when they’re older. Your teeth, jaw, and mouth will continue to change throughout your life. Some changes won’t cause you any problems; however, if you notice gaps, crowding, gum disease, tooth decay, pain, discomfort, or trouble speaking and chewing, it’s time to visit the orthodontist. Don’t let your memories of childhood braces deter you though—there are new, easy, and barely noticeable options available. The cost for orthodontics has also changed, so don’t put off making an appointment any longer. Find a simple and cost-effective solution today.