I have a clear retainer for my upper teeth, but it's very worn. My ortho said that's ok when I went in for the follow up appointment a few months after the braces were removed. I had it replaced once 6 years ago, it was so tight and uncomfortable that it's cracked and hole-y again. I can feel that my top teeth have moved a lot compared to my bottom teeth (that have the metal retainer). I don't currently have dental insurance, is this something my orthodontist would still talk about with me?
October 24, 2011
Answer: Cracked retainer
It is certainly possible that a simple crack in a retainer may be innocuous. Small cracks may not affect the functionality of a retainer. The crack may never cause a problem or perhaps that weak spot may result in eventual fracture of the retainer; only time will tell. Only your orthodontist can determine if the crack would cause a problem with the retainers function; namely, holding your teeth in position.
Helpful 1 person found this helpful
October 24, 2011
Answer: Cracked retainer
It is certainly possible that a simple crack in a retainer may be innocuous. Small cracks may not affect the functionality of a retainer. The crack may never cause a problem or perhaps that weak spot may result in eventual fracture of the retainer; only time will tell. Only your orthodontist can determine if the crack would cause a problem with the retainers function; namely, holding your teeth in position.
Helpful 1 person found this helpful
October 26, 2011
Answer: Retainers are very Important
A clear retainer is commonly known as an Essex retainer in the profession. Theny tend to wear out and stretch more quickly than traditional acrylic ones. Bonded retainers which are invisible from the front but are essentially wires affixed to the inside surface of your teeth are very good as wel. Sometimes we use them in combination. A cracked or old retainer should usually be replaced. If a retainer doesn't fit tight (ie there is wiggle room) then the teeth will start to shift. Ideally you would have a good acrylic retainer and replace it every 3-5 years. Clear retainers are good for at best 1 year in my opinion,
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October 26, 2011
Answer: Retainers are very Important
A clear retainer is commonly known as an Essex retainer in the profession. Theny tend to wear out and stretch more quickly than traditional acrylic ones. Bonded retainers which are invisible from the front but are essentially wires affixed to the inside surface of your teeth are very good as wel. Sometimes we use them in combination. A cracked or old retainer should usually be replaced. If a retainer doesn't fit tight (ie there is wiggle room) then the teeth will start to shift. Ideally you would have a good acrylic retainer and replace it every 3-5 years. Clear retainers are good for at best 1 year in my opinion,
Helpful