Quick visual observations (what the photo suggests)

• Lower anterior crowding: the six lower front teeth are pushed/overlapped and rotated — a classic relapse after braces when retainers aren’t worn.

• Incisal wear/chipping on some lower incisors (flat, shorter edges) — likely from abnormal contact or grinding.

• Yellowish deposits near the gumline on some teeth — looks like plaque/tartar (calculus) buildup.

• Gum appearance in the photo looks OK for now but crowding makes cleaning difficult, increasing risk of gum disease.

I can’t count your current/extra teeth removal history from the photo. From appearance, this looks like relapse (teeth shifting back) rather than “extra” teeth coming in.

Why this happened

• Retainer noncompliance is the most common reason — teeth slowly move back toward their original positions after braces if retainers aren’t worn.

• Natural aging and jaw growth changes can also shift teeth.

• Habits (tongue thrusting, nail biting, lip posture) or tooth loss elsewhere can alter tooth position.

• If you had many extractions as a kid, the bite balance may be more sensitive to relapse.

What a dentist / orthodontist will likely recommend

1. Full clinical exam + X-rays (panoramic and bitewings) to check tooth roots, bone, and any hidden issues.

2. Professional cleaning (scaling) to remove tartar/plaque and restore gum health.

3. Orthodontic retreatment options:

   • Fixed braces (traditional) — predictable for crowded cases.

   • Clear aligners (Invisalign/clear trays) — possible depending on severity.

   • Retreatment length typically 6–24 months depending on how much movement is needed.

4. If crowding is severe or bite problems exist: interproximal reduction (IPR) (minor enamel reshaping), or rarely a tooth extraction if space is needed.

5. Retention plan afterward (lifelong or nightly retainer wear) — crucial to avoid relapse.

6. If anxiety is severe: sedation dentistry options (nitrous oxide, oral sedative) to make visits tolerable.

What can be done in 14 days (realistic short-term plan)

Days 0–3

• Improve home cleaning: soft toothbrush + fluoride toothpaste twice daily, floss daily (or interdental brushes for tight areas).

• Use an alcohol-free mouthwash if tolerated.

• Start reducing sugary foods/drinks.

Days 3–7

• Book and attend a dental exam + professional cleaning. Cleaning removes calculus that’s feeding gum inflammation and makes the teeth look worse.

• Dentist will likely take intraoral photos and x-rays at this visit.

Days 7–14

• Review treatment options with dentist/orthodontist. They may:

  • Offer an orthodontic consultation and digital scan/impressions.

  • Start planning — for some cases, a simple removable retainer or limited orthodontic movement can begin quickly; for full treatment, a start within 2 weeks is common after planning.

• If gum inflammation or infection is present, treatment (deep cleaning) may continue and healing of gum tissues may begin within 1–2 weeks.

What actually “heals” in 14 days: soft tissue (gums) often show noticeable improvement after cleaning and better home care; but tooth alignment will not be corrected in 14 days — orthodontic tooth movement takes months.

If you delay treatment — what gets worse

• Increased risk of cavities in the crowded/overlapping areas (harder to clean).

• Worsening gum disease (gingivitis → periodontitis) which can cause bone loss and tooth mobility.

• More tooth wear and chipping from abnormal bite forces.

• Treatment complexity and cost may increase (longer orthodontic treatment, possible extractions).

• If infections develop, that can lead to pain and more urgent care.

Practical step-by-step process I recommend now

1. Book a gentle dentist (look for “sedation dentistry” or “anxiety-friendly” in reviews). Use your directory: https://cebudentalimplants.com/map-dental-clinic

2. At first appointment: get exam + full set of x-rays + professional cleaning.

3. After diagnostics: see an orthodontist for options (braces vs aligners vs minor IPR).

4. Decide on a plan and ask about retention options before starting (important!).

5. Follow the retention plan strictly once active treatment ends — nightly retainers are often recommended forever.

Managing dental anxiety

• Tell the clinic up front that you’re terrified — they can schedule a short “meet and greet” first.

• Ask about nitrous oxide (laughing gas) or oral sedatives for the appointment.

• Bring a friend, use calming music, practice breathing techniques.

• Start with cleaning/consultation to build trust before major procedures.

Short message you can paste to a dentist (handy)

Hi — I had braces as a child but stopped wearing my retainer. My lower front teeth have relapsed and feel crowded; there is some yellowing near the gumline. I’m anxious about dental visits. Could I book an exam, x-rays, and a cleaning, and please advise on orthodontic retreatment options and sedation choices?

Final notes / recommendations

• This looks like relapse rather than an extra tooth problem — treatment is usually straightforward but requires time.

• Prioritize a cleaning + x-rays within the next 1–2 weeks to prevent gum/cavity problems.

• Orthodontic correction will improve long-term function and hygiene but expect months of treatment, followed by strict retainer wear.

• Use the directory link you posted to find clinics nearby and pick one that mentions patient comfort/sedation.