Retainers may come after orthodontic treatment, but they should never be an afterthought since they play a very important role in helping your child to maintain their new smile long-term. However, a retainer that fits perfectly today may not tomorrow, and this can happen for various reasons.
Here’s how to tell if your child’s retainer no longer fits.
It Causes Discomfort
A retainer is designed to help teeth, not hurt them. While it is normal for it to initially feel snug or tight, this uncomfortable feeling should not stick around. Pain, pressure, or pinching that persists could be a sign of a problem.
Teeth can shift over time, and the retainer may no longer fit the bite. This warrants the help of your child’s orthodontist.
It Falls Out or Feels Loose
Your child’s retainer is customized and designed to fit securely in place. Nonetheless, there are a few instances when things can change over time, such as getting worn down with general use or being warped due to heat exposure.
Any time a retainer flops around, falls out, or doesn’t lock into place like it used to can be a sign that it needs an adjustment.
It Has Visible Damage
Sometimes you can simply look at a retainer and notice that something isn’t right. It may have a crack or two, bent wires, or warping. And, of course, this means that it will not fit as it did. Please note that wearing a damaged retainer can be harmful and is not recommended. Have it addressed by your child’s orthodontist right away.
Changes in Speech or Drooling
If a retainer has a poor fit, it is common for the child to begin talking a little differently, often with a lisp. Drooling may also occur—don’t be alarmed. This can happen when there is a shift in the retainer, causing it to interact more with the tongue. Speech issues and excess saliva are the result.
A simple adjustment may be all that is needed.
Not Wearing the Retainer as Directed
As much as kids are encouraged to wear their retainers, they don’t always listen. Skipping a day or two can easily turn into weeks or months. During this time, the teeth can begin to shift. When the retainer is placed back in the mouth, it will not fit properly—or at all. This is why it is so important to follow the orthodontist’s instructions.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long should a child wear their retainer?
Generally, it is normal to wear the retainer full time for the first few months after braces or Invisalign treatment. Then, it will usually transition to being worn only at night. The length of time is indefinite.
Can a retainer be adjusted and reshaped so that it will fit again?
Retainers that are not fitting properly may be adjusted by an orthodontist. Keep in mind that there are times when the retainer may be too damaged or the teeth have shifted too much, which will make a replacement necessary.
Orthodontic Treatment for Kids and Their Parents
At Suffolk Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics, we don’t just focus on kids and their retainers, but adults, too. If you are interested in orthodontic treatment or have questions about an ill-fitting retainer, our team is here for you on your journey to a great smile.
Contact us today at 631-928-8585 to schedule a consultation at one of our conveniently located offices— Port Jefferson Station, Wading River, Sayville, Smithtown, and Patchogue.
