Can you wear your retainer after not wearing it for years?
Can you wear your retainer after not wearing it for years?
A few months or years: Don't even attempt to wear an old retainer if it's been several months or years! It's very unlikely to fit, and it could become stuck, cause pain, and even potentially damage your teeth and tissues. Instead, schedule an appointment with your orthodontist and take your old retainer with you.May 18, 2021
Can I use my old retainer to straighten my teeth?
Does wearing an old retainer to straighten teeth work? As it turns out, yes, it can. Retainers don't just keep your teeth in place, after all. Because they are custom made, they can also help improve any minor oral issues you might find years after having your braces removed.Sep 15, 2020
Should I wear my retainer if I haven't worn it in a while?
If you haven't worn your retainer for a long time, the best thing you can do is start using it as soon as possible! This will prevent your teeth from relapsing further. Ideally, your retainer should still fit even though your teeth have likely moved.Jul 30, 2020
Can I put my retainer back in after a year?
In most cases, wearing an old retainer can realign your smile so long as your teeth have not shifted into an entirely new position. As a rule of thumb, wearing an old retainer should not be an issue so long as it still fits without needing to apply any force while inserting it over your teeth.May 13, 2020
Can you wear a retainer after not wearing it for a long time?
If you stopped wearing your retainer for a substantial amount of time, you shouldn't just attempt to start wearing it again. Your teeth may have already started to shift back towards their original positions, and if you try to force your retainer in, you could hurt yourself.
Can I still use my old retainers?
Old retainers may still be usable If the retainer is tight, we recommend wearing it anyway, even if it makes your teeth a little sore at first. After a few successive nights of wear, patients will find that their retainer fits much better and isn't as uncomfortable.
Can you force an old retainer to fit?
Never try to force your old retainer in your mouth. This can not only damage your retainer, but damage your smile too. If you have to exert any force to fit your retainer, see your orthodontist first and do not put it in your mouth.
Can I force my teeth back into my retainer?
Your teeth may have already started to shift back towards their original positions, and if you try to force your retainer in, you could hurt yourself. Your retainer should fit easily, so if you have to force it back on your teeth, it likely isn't a good fit anymore.