Why Orthodontic Relapse Happens (And What Parents Can Do About It)
Estimated Reading Time: 8–10 minutes
Straight Teeth Are Only Part of the Story
After months—or sometimes years—of orthodontic treatment, seeing a beautiful new smile is exciting. Braces or clear aligners can create remarkable changes in tooth alignment and bite.
So it can be frustrating when teeth begin to shift again after treatment.
This is known as orthodontic relapse, and while it can happen for many reasons, it's important to understand that teeth don't move on their own.
The muscles of the mouth, tongue, lips, and face all influence how teeth are supported over time.
Understanding these functional influences helps explain why long-term stability is about more than wearing braces—it also involves developing healthy oral habits.
What Is Orthodontic Relapse?
Orthodontic relapse refers to the movement of teeth after orthodontic treatment has been completed.
This movement may be minor or more noticeable depending on the individual.
Even patients who wear retainers as instructed can sometimes experience changes if underlying muscle patterns continue placing pressure on the teeth.
Orthodontic relapse is not necessarily the result of "failed braces." Instead, it is often the result of multiple factors working together.
Why Do Teeth Shift?
Teeth exist in a balance between the forces around them.
Every day they are influenced by:
The tongue
The lips
The cheeks
Swallowing patterns
Oral habits
Growth and development
When these forces become unbalanced over time, teeth may gradually move.
This is one reason orthodontists increasingly recognize the importance of looking beyond tooth alignment alone.
The Role of Tongue Posture
One of the most important muscles affecting oral development is the tongue.
Ideally, the tongue rests gently against the roof of the mouth while breathing comfortably through the nose.
When the tongue consistently rests low in the mouth or pushes against the teeth during swallowing, different pressure patterns can develop over time.
These functional habits may contribute to changes in tooth position and overall oral development.
Swallowing Patterns Matter Too
Most people swallow hundreds of times every day.
During a healthy swallow, the tongue works in coordination with the lips, cheeks, and jaw.
If the tongue pushes against the front teeth or between the teeth with every swallow—a pattern often called tongue thrust—those repeated forces may influence orthodontic stability over time.
The goal is not simply correcting the teeth, but also encouraging healthy muscle function that supports those orthodontic results.
Oral Habits Can Influence Long-Term Stability
Certain habits may also affect orthodontic outcomes, including:
Thumb sucking
Finger sucking
Nail biting
Lip chewing
Mouth breathing
Prolonged pacifier use
These habits often involve repetitive muscle patterns that may place additional pressure on the teeth.
Addressing these habits early can help support healthy oral development.
Where Does Myofunctional Therapy Fit In?
Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy focuses on improving how the muscles of the mouth, tongue, lips, and face function together.
Rather than moving teeth, therapy works to improve the muscle patterns that influence oral function.
Goals often include:
Establishing nasal breathing
Improving tongue posture
Supporting healthy swallowing
Encouraging lips together at rest
Reducing harmful oral habits
For many patients, this functional approach complements orthodontic treatment and supports long-term stability.
Working Together: Orthodontists & Myofunctional Therapists
Orthodontists and Myofunctional Therapists each bring different expertise to patient care.
Orthodontic treatment focuses on creating healthy tooth alignment.
Myofunctional Therapy focuses on supporting healthy muscle function.
When appropriate, collaboration between providers may help create a more comprehensive approach to long-term oral health.
What Can Parents Do?
Parents play an important role in supporting long-term orthodontic success.
Helpful steps include:
Encouraging retainer use as directed by the orthodontist
Watching for persistent mouth breathing
Noticing tongue posture and oral habits
Asking questions if teeth begin shifting
Seeking evaluation when functional concerns are identified
Small changes in daily habits can have a meaningful impact over time.
Frequently Asked Questions
If my child wears their retainer, can teeth still move?
Yes. Retainers are important, but muscle function, growth, and oral habits can also influence tooth position over time.
Does everyone who has braces need Myofunctional Therapy?
No. Every patient is different.
Some patients may benefit from an evaluation if functional concerns such as mouth breathing, tongue thrust, or oral habits are present.
Can adults benefit from therapy after orthodontic treatment?
Absolutely.
Healthy oral muscle function remains important throughout adulthood and may support long-term stability.
Is Myofunctional Therapy a replacement for orthodontic treatment?
No.
The two approaches serve different purposes and often complement one another.
Orthodontics focuses on tooth movement, while Myofunctional Therapy focuses on improving oral muscle function.
When should we consider an evaluation?
If you notice mouth breathing, tongue thrust, shifting teeth, persistent oral habits, or concerns about orthodontic stability, discussing an evaluation with your healthcare team may be beneficial.
Continue Learning
You may also find these resources helpful:
Why Mouth Breathing Matters More Than Most Parents Realize
5 Signs Your Child May Benefit From Myofunctional Therapy
Tongue Ties: What Every Parent Should Know Before and After a Frenectomy
About the Author
Reviewed and Written by
Emilee Hyland, RDH
Orofacial Myofunctional Therapist
Founder, Face Value Myofunctional Therapy
Emilee works with children and adults to improve breathing, tongue posture, swallowing patterns, oral function, and airway health through personalized Myofunctional Therapy. She enjoys collaborating with orthodontists, dentists, and other healthcare providers to help patients achieve long-term functional success.
Wondering If Myofunctional Therapy Could Support Your Orthodontic Journey?
Every smile is unique.
If you have questions about orthodontic stability, tongue posture, mouth breathing, or whether Myofunctional Therapy may benefit you or your child, we'd love to help.