HomeAnswersOrthodontistdental retainerWhat will happen if I do not wear retainer for a week?

Will my teeth move a lot if I do not wear retainers for a week?

Share

The following is an actual conversation between an iCliniq user and a doctor that has been reviewed and published as a Premium Q&A.

Answered by

Dr. Asma Parveen

Medically reviewed by

Dr. K. Shobana

Published At March 30, 2018
Reviewed AtJuly 6, 2023

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I have stupidly just flushed my retainers down the toilet. I had braces removed eight years back and have been wearing them religiously every night since. Unfortunately, there is a storm here. So, all the dental practices are closed. I am worried that my teeth will move before I get an appointment next week. I have a mold of my top and bottom teeth from when I first got my braces removed but I had to change my retainers after getting new crowns and a porcelain veneer in my two front teeth. So, the new ones I flushed down the toilet are different but I would say only slightly. Is there a benefit of wearing these molds until I can get a replacement retainer?

Answered by Dr. Asma Parveen

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

It is quite unfortunate that you flushed your retainers and I completely understand your concern regarding the relapse of your orthodontic treatment in the absence of retainers. Now, coming to your question regarding the old retainer, you cannot wear the old retainer as it is not going to help you since a minor change in dentistry means a lot. But, do not worry. Only a week of not wearing the retainers would not make much of a difference since you have been wearing them for quite a long time. My advice to you would be to wait for your appointment and get the retainers.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Asma Parveen
Dr. Asma Parveen

Dentistry

Community Banner Mobile
By subscribing, I agree to iCliniq's Terms & Privacy Policy.

Ask your health query to a doctor online

Orthodontist

*guaranteed answer within 4 hours

Disclaimer: No content published on this website is intended to be a substitute for professional medical diagnosis, advice or treatment by a trained physician. Seek advice from your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with questions you may have regarding your symptoms and medical condition for a complete medical diagnosis. Do not delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice because of something you have read on this website. Read our Editorial Process to know how we create content for health articles and queries.

This website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website. iCliniq privacy policy