In short, the answer to this question is “not exactly.” For younger children, while you and your orthodontist can do things to help guide teeth or encourage proper eruption of teeth with interceptive care, Mother Nature ultimately determines exactly how they are going to erupt into the mouth. The beautiful thing about orthodontics is that we can move the teeth into ideal positions for the best form, fit, and function; giving a beautiful result that will help teeth and your smile last a lifetime. With the advent of retainers, we are now able to prevent teeth from moving or going “crooked” after treatment is complete. The only sure thing in life is change, and that goes for teeth as well. Retainers help hold those teeth in an ideal position following treatment.