My Retainer Doesn’t Fit Anymore – What To Do?

Your retention period isn’t all plain sailing. You may find your retainer doesn’t fit anymore or is loose. If so, your new straight smile is at risk. The retainer won’t be effective if it is not a snug fit. There are a few reasons why this may be happening. In this post, we’ll take you through the reasons your retainer doesn’t fit anymore. Let’s get going.

How to Know that Your Retainer Doesn’t Fit Anymore?

The Signs of an Ill-Fitting Retainer

Orthodontic retainers are necessary to keep teeth from shifting back into their original position but they should be comfortable when worn. If you have fitting issues or feel more discomfort than usual, then you may need an appointment with your provider to adjust the fit of this device for a better experience. Be on the lookout for:

1. Loose fitting retainer
2. Swollen or irritated gums
3. Tight fitting retainer

What Happens if I Don’t Wear My Retainer?

The third stage in orthodontic care is the retainer. Without it, there will be no force preventing teeth from drifting back to their original position which means you’ll find yourself with crooked or misaligned teeth once again. 

If you never wear your retainers every day, then all of those expensive treatments may go down the drain as well since many people lose what they’ve accomplished after not wearing them for long periods of time.

HOW TO FIX – Stick to the instructions given by your treatment provider 

The Retainer is Damaged

Playing sports can damage the retainer. Contact sports will mean possible cracks and splits in the plastic, dropped or squashed retainers will also suffer some form of damage.

HOW TO FIX: Always remove your retainer before any sporting event to avoid damaging it from contact with other players. 

The Retainer Shape has Changed

It’s important to take out your retainer before eating or drinking anything hot. Otherwise, the heat will warp it and cause it not to fit properly. If you wear a retainer for orthodontic purposes, do NOT leave them in direct sunlight, the UV rays can break their plastic material down over time.

HOW TO FIX – Ensure the retainer is kept in its case while eating and non use.

What Types of Retainers are Available? 

There are two types of retainers in use across the world. They work similarly, as they both have the same outcome. However, it will depend on your previous treatment and which retainer is most effective for you based on that particular orthodontist’s expertise.

Permanent Retainer

Permanent retainers protect teeth from shifting by clamping them in place. They are made of a metal wire that is glued to the tooth, and attached so it cannot move as you bite down or grind your teeth. 

Usually one has either a smooth texture with braided being more popular due to its increased functionality for people who grind their teeth excessively when they sleep which can last up until adulthood but usually need replacing every ten years because they lose elasticity. 

Removable Retainers

The removable retainers are created by lab technicians, who use a clear plastic sheet to shape it around an individual’s teeth mold. The perfect fit holds all of the natural teeth securely in place and lasts anywhere from a few months to a few years.

Conclusion

Your retention period is an important part of your treatment. Not using your retainer will affect the final result.  This time need not hinder your orthodontic treatment. Use a top-rated ortho like Dr. Gluck and the professionals at Gluck Orthodontics. They will be the ones to help with this process so that it goes smoothly and conveniently for you, allowing for a perfect final result.

Dr.Gluck is here for you to bring out the best in your smile. Make your appointment today.

joelgluck

Dr. Joel Gluck has practiced orthodontics since 1983 when he opened his own office in Nashville. He earned his undergraduate degree at Washington University in St. Louis, and his dental degree at the University of Tennessee. Dr. Gluck then completed an orthodontic specialty residency at the University of Michigan, one of the top five orthodontic training residencies in the country. He also wrote an original thesis and received a Master of Science degree.