How To Know If Your Retainer Doesn't Fit?

After braces or other orthodontic treatments, many people have prescribed a retainer to help maintain the new position of their teeth. Retainers are custom-made devices that fit over your teeth, holding them in place. However, sometimes retainers can become loose or not fit properly, which can cause discomfort or even undo the progress of orthodontic treatment. In this blog post, we’ll discuss how to know if your retainer doesn’t fit.

How To Know If Your Retainer Doesn’t Fit?

Discomfort

One of the most obvious signs that your retainer doesn’t fit properly is discomfort or pain. If your retainer feels tight or uncomfortable, it may be putting too much pressure on your teeth. Alternatively, if your retainer feels loose, it may not be providing enough support to hold your teeth in place.

Difficulty Putting It On

If you are having trouble putting your retainer on, it may be a sign that it doesn’t fit properly. If your retainer doesn’t fit properly, it may be difficult to get it over your teeth or to snap it into place.

Gaps Or Spaces Between Teeth

Another sign that your retainer doesn’t fit properly is the presence of gaps or spaces between your teeth. If your retainer is not fitting correctly, it may not be holding your teeth in the correct position, causing gaps or spaces to form.

Movement Of Teeth

If you notice that your teeth are shifting or moving, it may be a sign that your retainer is not fitting properly. Retainers are designed to hold your teeth in place and prevent them from moving. If your teeth are moving, it could be a sign that your retainer is not doing its job.

Visual Inspection

Sometimes, it’s as simple as looking at your retainer to see if it doesn’t fit properly. If you notice that your retainer looks warped, cracked, or damaged in any way, it may be time to replace it.

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FAQ

How Do You Know If A Retainer Doesn’t Fit?

To determine whether your retainer still fits properly, carefully place it in your mouth and observe whether it slips into place. If your retainer is properly fitted, it will feel slightly snug at first and progressively relax to alleviate any discomfort.

Is It Ok If My Retainer Doesn’t Fit Perfectly?

No, you should not wear your retainer if it doesn’t fit. Your retainer is custom-molded for the shape of your teeth. If you notice that your retainer isn’t fitting as snugly as it should, stop wearing it and tell your dentist or orthodontist. If you got your retainer from a clear aligner company, contact them.

Can You Force Your Retainer To Fit Again?

Never try to force your old retainer in your mouth. This can not only damage your retainer but damage your smile too. If you have to exert any force to fit your retainer, see your orthodontist first and do not put it in your mouth.

Can I Still Wear My Retainer If My Teeth Have Shifted?

While this method of teeth straightening isn’t guaranteed to work, retainers are used at times for making very small corrections, which is why they can also be used if your teeth have moved to an abnormal position after the original appliance is taken out.

Conclusion

In conclusion, if you experience discomfort, difficulty putting on your retainer, gaps or spaces between teeth, movement of teeth, or if you visually inspect your retainer and notice it is damaged, it may be time to visit your orthodontist or dental professional. They can evaluate your retainer and make any necessary adjustments or replacements to ensure that it fits properly and is doing its job in maintaining the new position of your teeth.