Post-braces; teeth shifting after wisdom tooth extraction?

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Website · #1 Post by **Jetgirl** » Sun Sep 09, 2007 6:29 am

Hi all,

I have been out of braces for a couple years now. Just this week I had all of my wisdom teeth extracted, and I'm a little concerned about my teeth shifting and ruining all the hard work I went through previously!

I'm considering going back to my orthodontist to see if they can adjust my hawley retainers (I still have them, though I admit I haven't worn them frequently) or if I can get a new set of retainers made. Has anyone else done this? How much do I really need to worry about my teeth shifting?

Thanks!
Jet

#2 Post by **oceanblue** » Sun Sep 09, 2007 8:57 am

Not to freak you out, but after having all 4 of my wisdom teeth taken out my teeth (lowers more so) shifted pretty badly. Maybe if I had worn my retainers after the procedure it wouldn't have been as bad?

#3 Post by **jennielee81** » Sun Sep 09, 2007 9:57 am

Ocean, I'm assuming that this was in a "previous" braces treatment?

I was thinking while I was reading this that you still had your upper braces on this time. So it must have been when you were a kid.

Do you think it was from the molars being removed or from the retainer wear?

Or do you think it was from both....

#4 Post by **PARR** » Sun Sep 09, 2007 3:37 pm

If your wisdoms were errupted and a presence in your arches, once they are gone there is room and yes things will shift, slowly over time. A small shift will set you chewing differently which in turn etc...Frankly you have answered your own question, so see your orthodontist for :
1) are these retainers still working for me?
2) should i get new molds made as soon as the swelling goes down etc?
3) how often should I wear them for adequate retention?

Website · #5 Post by **Jetgirl** » Sun Sep 09, 2007 6:59 pm

Thanks guys!

I got out my retainer and while the bottom still fits great, the top is a bit snug and almost doesn't quite fit. I've already noticed a lot of shift on the top; trying to floss between my front teeth there was no resistance (normally these teeth are a little snug). I'm going to wear these overnight and see if they will settle back in.

Either way, I think I'll make an appointment with my Ortho to see what he recommends.

Thanks!

#6 Post by **jennielee81** » Mon Sep 10, 2007 4:14 am

I really think it has way more to do with not wearing retainers than having your wisdom teeth removed.

My son stopped wearing his retainers after 2 years and his teeth have moved a lot since then and his retainers don't fit at all.

I agree with Meryaten, wear them a few nights a week and they'll probably stay put better.....regardless of the 4th molar removal.