Should my retainer hurt even if I wear it every day?

Question

Two days ago I got my braces off and my orthodontist gave me a clear retainer for the top and bottom of my teeth. He said I should wear them every night. I know if you don't wear your retainer your teeth shift and when you try to put it in your mouth it hurts like hell. I however, have worn my retainer for the past two nights and it's agony. Is that normal? Also my bottom retainer doesn't hurt too much, it's mainly the top one?

Michael Ayzin, DDS · Answer

Thank you for your question.
Retainers are designed NOT to hurt. What you are describing needs to be addressed with your dentist and most likely can be easily corrected/adjusted in his office.
Good luck.

Navid Zamani, DMD · Answer

Sorry to hear that you are having difficulty with your new retainer. Retainers are designed to keep the teeth stable and typically do not hurt. If there is discomfort it may be typical for a night or two due to stabilization factor of the teeth. However this should not be a pain feeling. There may be an area of the retainer that is causing too much pressure on your gums or teeth. I suggest you see your dentist for him to evaluate it and possibly adjust it for you.All the best.

Should my retainer hurt even if I wear it every day?

Answers (2)