Essix Retainer

Here at Smile Hub Dental Clinic, we provide Essix retainers to prevent teeth from moving. Essix retainers are removable appliance which are made of transparent plastic so they are not as noticeable as other wire retainers. Over time our teeth are continuously moving due to contact and pressure and can move to different positions in our mouth. An Essix retainer keeps the teeth in the desired position after orthodontic treatment. An Essix retainer can also treat minor corrections or slightly uneven teeth. Essix retainers are a great way to keep straight teeth without feeling self-conscious as they are clear and not noticeable. They are thin and removable so they should not cause any trouble in your daily routine and lifestyle. If an Essix retainer becomes uncomfortable it could mean that your teeth are moving and you may not be wearing the retainer enough so it is important to wear it more to reduce any discomfort and prevent teeth changing position.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Should I care for an Essix Retainer?

Rinse the retainer in cold water every time you remove it and put it back in.
Keep your Essix retainer in a plastic box whenever you don’t have it in.
Refrain for brushing your retainer with toothpaste as it can causes scratches.
Brush the retainer with a soft tooth brush and luke warm water after every meal.
Never use hot water on your retainer as it will shrink or change shape.
Wash your retainer with retainer cleaner ever 2 to 3 months.

How long does an Essix retainer last?

An Essix retainer’s longevity depends on the particular case. If put in hot water it can distort the shape or general wear and tear can lead to needing a new one. An Essix retainer can last from 6 months to a few years depending on how it is cared for.

Can you eat with an Essix retainer?

You should not eat or drink anything other than plain water when wearing an Essix Retainer. Any drink containing sugar will pool around the teeth and can cause decay in the teeth. Eating with an Essix retainer in can also lead to it breaking and needing a new one. Due to the Essix retainer being removeable, it is simple to take it out and put it back in after eating.

What is an essix retainer used for?

An essix retainer is a removable appliance which is used to maintain orthodontic work that has previously done. They are worn constantly and are clear so they are very hard to notice. Wearing them for the correct amount of time will stop the teeth from moving back to the undesirable position.

Do essix retainers hurt?

An essix retainer should not hurt so if it is, it is important to go to your dentist or orthodontist to adjust it or get a new one if it doesn’t fit properly. If you have had no problems with the fit of your retainer and it is suddenly causing pain it could be because you have not been wearing it enough and the teeth are moving out of place. Essix retainers will usually last about 2 years if they are cared for properly.

Why do my retainers smell in the morning?

The mouth is full of bacteria that can cause plaque to build up on your teeth. This is no different for retainers as it is another surface for bacteria to live on. When there is a build up of bacteria or plaque it can cause bad breath and can also leave a smell on a retainer. It is important to clean your retainer regularly to avoid it becoming damaged or bacteria becoming trapped which can affect the teeth.