If you have a retainer and it breaks during the lockdown, don't panic! There are a few things you can do to fix it or make do until you can see your orthodontist.
If the break is minor, you may be able to fix it yourself with dental wax. If the break is more significant, you can try to fashion a temporary retainer out of a thin piece of plastic (like a credit card) or even orthodontic wire. If all else fails, you can always try to improvise with gum, candy, or even marshmallows!
The most important thing is to not panic and to try to find a creative solution that will work for you. Remember, your orthodontist will be able to help you fix your retainer when the lockdown is over.
What do I do if my retainer breaks during lockdown?
If your retainer breaks during lockdown, the best thing to do is to contact your orthodontist and schedule an appointment to have it repaired or replaced. In the meantime, you can try to wear your retainer as much as possible and avoid eating hard or sticky foods.
How often should I wear my retainer?
While there is no definitive answer to how often one should wear their retainer, the general consensus is that it should be worn as much as possible, especially in the first few months after getting braces. After that, it is generally recommended to continue wearing the retainer nightly, or at minimum, a few times per week, in order to keep the teeth from moving back into their original position. Whether you just got your braces off or have been wearing a retainer for years, it is important to be consistent with wearing it in order to maintain the results of your orthodontic treatment.
What are the consequences of not wearing my retainer?
If you don't wear your retainer, your teeth will move. You might not be able to bite or chew as well, and your teeth might not look as good as they did before you had braces. You could end up having to wear your retainer for longer, or even get braces again.
What are the risks of not wearing my retainer?
If you don't wear your retainer, your teeth can move back into their original positions. You may also develop gaps between your teeth. Not wearing your retainer can also cause your bite to change. You may even find it difficult to chew or speak.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should my retainers feel tight?
If your retainers feel tight, but not painful, keep wearing them full time over the next few days until they start to feel okay. Hopefully, they will gently nudge your teeth back in line.
How long do you need to wear retainers?
You will need to wear fixed retainers indefinitely.
Why does my retainer hurt after braces?
There are a few reasons your retainer may hurt after braces. Depending on the time of year and how often you brush or floss, your retainers could be caught up in plaque and calculus which can cause irritation. If the retainer is not properly fitted, it can rub against the teeth and create localized pain. Finally, excessive wear on your retainer over time may cause it to loosen and slip, necessitating its replacement. How can I avoid my retainer from hurting? There are a few easy steps you can take to help prevent your retainer from causing pain: brush and floss regularly - remove any debris that accumulates on your teeth and inside of your retainers between brushes and flossing; make sure your retainers are correctly fitted - people with a protrusion higher than 2 mm above their gum line are more likely to experience discomfort; refrain from biting down hard on your retainers - doing so can increase the amount of pressure placed on them
What is the difference between fixed and Removable retainers?
Fixed retainers are discreetly attached behind your front teeth, while removable retainers resemble clear, thin gumshields.
What should I do if my retainers are too tight?
If the retainers are too tight, they can cause pressure on your teeth and may require adjustments. Contact the orthodontist or dentist who provided your treatment for help.
