Q.
 In my teens I had four teeth removed and wore standard braces (on the NHS)for around 2.5 yrs. The results were great. I was given a retainer to wear at night and I remember that although I was good at first it wasn’t long until I started forgetting and eventually it got lost. Now I am hearing people say that a retainer is for life. Certainly no one every old me that! Now I’m worried that my teeth have shifted. I keep studying them in the mirror. Maybe I’m being paranoid – I’m still complimented on my teeth – but after all the discomfort I went through with braces I don’t want to risk them going crooked again.

Please can you tell me if it is possible that my teeth have moved over the years and could move in the future? They are pretty straight so I think if they have moved it has not been by that much. But if it is a gradual thing I am wondering if it’s worth me getting a retainer made to protect against movement in the future (and maybe do a little correction if there’s room for improvement). I’d be interested to know how much I might have to pay if there’s only a little correction needed. I’m sorry for the 101 questions!

Many thanks in advance,