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FAQ: Invisalign Clear Aligners

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Question:
Invisalign Retainers versus Permanent Retainers? I had braces for 4 years (plus 4 teeth removed) to correct an overjet.

Braces came off a few months ago and I wear my Invisalign retainer at night (generally 6-10 hours depending). However, most nights the retainer doesn't fit well at first; it usually takes a good 15 minutes for the teeth to fit back into the retainers and sometimes my teeth are downright uncomfortable for a while.

Is this normal? Frankly, I'd like to get permanent retainers. Is this possible for my upper teeth as well as lower? ...Visitor from NY

Answer:
Clear retainers are great, when utilized correctly. The fact that they are tight at night indicates that the teeth are moving too much during the day.

I suggest that you wear them during the day for at least three months, allowing your teeth to settle a bit more. Then go to only night wear. You will find that your teeth have shifted less once you hold them in place for a few months.

Fixed retainer (aka permanent) are OK. I'm not a fan. They break...usually at the most inopportune time. Then the teeth shift, because you haven't had a chance to set up an appointment with your orthodontist to get the fixed retainer repaired. Suddenly your teeth are crooked again.

Stick with the clear retainers....that's what I do.

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