Hi there, I posted this in another forum but only got one reply, so I hope it's okay that I've posted it here.
I got my braces off a month ago and have not become used to my Hawley retainer yet. It makes my jaw ache because I can't close my teeth far enough down for comfort, I have to take it out in social situations because I am still lisping horribly, I have constant dry mouth and can't swallow properly, I'm having trouble sleeping because of the feeling in my mouth... it's awful. Other than the jaws, it's not painful though. And I have been wearing it constantly, other than when I eat or have an important conversation.
Now, what I'm wondering is can everyone use Essix retainers? I read on the internet that people who have had parts of their mouth expanded can't, but I have not had this done. So would it be possible for me to switch to an Essix? I know some orthos *only* offer Esix, so I'm thinking yes...
My orthodontist did not offer me any options, and I will ask him the next time I go in, however there was a time during my treatment when I had to make a decision about my teeth and he gave me two options: get the procedure done a certain way or don't... when I had at least two other ways of getting the procedure done (I got a second opinion). So I don't really trust him with this and would like to hear it here. It may be too that he doesn't offer the Essix, in which case I will find a different ortho who does.
Anyway, thanks for reading this rather long post, and I appreciate any help or insight!
Essix retainer and/or Hawley retainer? Help, please!
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Dr. Randall
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- Location: St. Louis Missouri
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In patients that have a difficult time adjusting to Hawley retainers, an essix (or tru-tain or many other trade names for them) work well. I usually do not use them as the initial retainer unless there is a specific reason because they are not adjustable. Most patients get used to their Hawleys within a week or two, but if they don't then a switch may be in order. Talk to your orthodontist about your choices.
Randall
Randall