Is there an alternative to retainers?

Unfortunately, there are no alternatives to wearing retainers. In order to retain the smile achieved with orthodontic treatment, you must use some form of retainer. However, there are several retainers to choose from. We offer 3 types: Bonded retainer, Clear or Essix retainer, and Hawley Retainer.

How long until your teeth move without retainer?

During this time, a week without your retainer may cause some minor shifting. Your retainer may feel a bit tighter on your teeth when you place it back in again. Throughout the rest of your retention phase, it’s still possible for your teeth to shift a bit if you go without wearing your retainer for a week.

What to do if you can’t find your retainer?

Call your orthodontist. It’s important to get a new retainer if you absolutely cannot find yours. Otherwise, your teeth will shift and you will lose whatever progress you have made in shifting them. Call if you haven’t found your retainer after a few hours.

Are plastic retainers safe?

Yes, plastic retainers are very safe. They are custom molded to your teeth, to fit snugly over the top and bottom teeth and protect the treatment results. They are made of medical-grade multilayer polyurethane plastic designed for biocompatibility and comfort. They are BPA-free and easy to wash clean.

Do bonded retainers work?

Bonded retainers can work extremely well, and I have found there are two main factors that will determine how well they work. Fist, the patient must be determined to be an excellent candidate for the responsibility to have a bonded retainer.

Can I use a mouthguard as a retainer?

If new retainers cannot be made, a ‘boil and bite’ sports mouthguard can be moulded to the teeth at home and worn (ideally for at least 8 hours per day) as a temporary substitute for a retainer.

Can a tooth move overnight?

So yes, teeth move overnight, though the change might be imperceptible at first. Regardless of dental decay or bad habits, our teeth usually shift over time, resulting in gaps, misalignment, and crookedness. It takes time to notice a changing appearance.