Actress Dakota Johnson recently revealed a subtle shift in her appearance to fans. During a recent talk show appearance, she disclosed that the removal of a permanent retainer had led to a change in her signature gap-toothed smile.

Johnson explained that after removing the retainer, her teeth experienced some movement, resulting in the closure of the space between her two front teeth. Acknowledging the fondness many fans held for her unique smile, Johnson reassured them that further dental treatment would restore the familiar gap.

The Reason Behind Dakotah’s Teeth Shift 

“The removal of Dakota Johnson’s retainer raises interesting questions about dental movement. Why did she remove it, and why did her teeth shift together afterward?

Dr. Gary Lederman, a dentist from Bellmore, New York, explains that such shifts are not unusual. Retainers act as a stabilizing force, preventing teeth from moving back to their original positions. Removing the retainer can allow these natural forces to resume, potentially leading to tooth movement.

However, Dr. Lederman emphasizes that the extent and direction of tooth movement vary significantly from person to person.

The reasons behind Johnson’s decision to remove her retainer are a separate matter, but they highlight an important consideration: the long-term implications of orthodontic treatment and the potential need for ongoing maintenance.

Neck Pain and Retainers

“Dr. Lederman suggests that Johnson’s decision to remove the retainer may be linked to experiencing neck pain. He explains that this is plausible due to the intricate connection between the muscles of the mouth, jaw, head, neck, and back.

Temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMJ) serves as a prime example of this interconnectedness. TMJ disorders can manifest as pain and tension not only in the jaw but also in the head, neck, and even the back.

This highlights the potential for dental issues, such as retainer-related restrictions, to have an impact on overall musculoskeletal health.

Dr. Lederman emphasizes that the human body operates in complex and interconnected ways, and the relationship between dental health and other bodily systems is often underestimated.

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