Common "Essix Retainers" queries answered by top doctors | iCliniq

Essix Retainers

Essix retainer is a clear orthodontic retainer used to retain the tooth in its newly aligned position. The retainer should be worn for at least 12 hours a day for six months to a few years, as suggested by the orthodontist. After that, the retainer has to be removed when eating or drinking. It is effective in retaining the lower teeth in their new position.

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Can I wear a retainer that I have not worn for three years?

Query: Hello doctor, I have not worn my retainer for three years because I missed my appointment, and now they threw it away. My teeth have shifted, but I still have a straight smile. However, I am concerned about how my bite will change in the long run. Once, the doctor offered an option that he would mol...  Read Full »


Dr. Mayank Khandelwal

Answer: Hello, Welcome to icliniq.com. I read your query and can understand your concern. Retainers after orthodontic treatment are an essential part of therapy as they maintain and hold on to the changes achieved by the treatment. In addition, they prevent the teeth and other surrounding tissues from ret...  Read Full »

Does having a retainer only on few teeth affect other teeth badly?

Query: Hello doctor, My essix retainer only covers my front upper six teeth. It has been about eight years since I have taken off my braces. Does having a retainer only on those teeth affect other teeth badly?  Read Full »


Dr. Mayank Khandelwal

Answer: Hello, Welcome to icliniq.com. I understand your concern. The retainer will not badly affect other teeth. As you have mentioned, having retainers for eight years already means all your teeth would have settled into their respective correct positions. An Essix retainer (used to maintain a previous ...  Read Full »

Can I remove my tooth retainer while eating and brushing?

Query: Hello doctor, How to use a tooth retainer? Is it advisable to remove it while brushing or eating? Kindly advise.   Read Full »


Dr. Beryl F

Answer: Hello, Welcome to icliniq.com. I understand your concern. There are fixed and removable retainers (Hawley's and Essix). I hope you have a removable type of retainer. It is best to remove them during brushing and eating, but they should be worn immediately afterward. Whenever you remove your ret...  Read Full »

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