You woke up one morning to find that the teeth in your mirror’s reflection aren’t perfectly straight. Maybe this is the point where your gaze slid over to a forgotten retainer case, and you thought, “Okay. That could work.”
It’s a good thing you’re double-checking with some research! The simple answer to your question is that no, old retainers can’t be used to re-straighten your teeth. Keep reading to learn what you should do instead.
If They’re Not for Straightening, Why Have a Retainer?
Dental retainers are supposed to hold your new alignment and prevent orthodontic relapse, not exert pressure until your teeth shift You see, teeth generally don’t like being moved around. After your braces or clear aligners are removed, they’ll try to slide back out of alignment in small, subtle increments – in other words, they relapse.
Since relapsing teeth make very slow progress, forgetting to wear your retainer a time or two likely won’t cause major issues. However, if the terms change to months or years, you could be in trouble.
Can I Fix Orthodontic Relapse?
Yes, though how difficult a reversal will be depends on the severity of your relapse. If your retainer still fits, for example, it’s usually okay to wear it as instructed. Microscopic movements can be re-treated this way.
If your retainer doesn’t fit or causes you abnormal pain, it’s time to call your orthodontist. Fortunately, in most cases, re-straightening your teeth doesn’t take nearly as much time as your first attempt.
How to Maintain a Clean Retainer
There’s no sugar-coating it: retainers can get gross. So gross that it wouldn’t be surprising if this is why you skipped wearing sessions. Whether your retainer is new or old, you’re going to want to make sure it stays clean. Follow these best practices to avoid getting the ick:
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste to wash your retainer
- Rinse it off with lukewarm or cold water before and after insertion
- Put it in its case when not in use
- Replace it if it sustains damage
- Absolutely do not eat with your retainer in
- Clean and rinse twice a day, or after each meal if applicable
Lifetime retainers do require you to maintain and wear them, which can feel tiring at times. However, it’s much easier and more convenient than undergoing a second orthodontic treatment due to relapse! If either your teeth or retainer need fixed, contact your orthodontist. They don’t want you to be uncomfortable while preserving your new dental alignment and will be happy to offer you more tips and tricks.
About the Author
Dr. Isaak Yelizar is a board-certified orthodontist, meaning he’s worked more than most to advance his orthodontic know-how. Providing patients with beautifully straight teeth for many years has taught Dr. Yelizar two things: first, straighter teeth often improve confidence, and second, preventative care is highly effective. If you’re experiencing orthodontic relapse, he’ll sympathize and help you maintain your restored alignment after treatment. To contact Dr. Yelizar’s office, call 929-229-1009.