HELP! Just got Essix type temporary retainers!

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#1 Post by **acrowell** » Tue Aug 05, 2008 5:54 pm

I just got my braces off today and received upper and lower clear plastic tray-type retainers, Essix or similar, I guess?

I have a real problem with a strong gag reflex combined with small arches...I was originally going with Invisalign but couldn't tolerate the length of time time required for the impressions so gave up and switched to traditional braces, just because of that darned gagging problem.

These retainers are making me literally ill. I did some trimming with manicure sissors to remove a bit of excess plastic towards the back, and doing so helped, but, even so, when I try to talk, I start to gag.

I don't see how I'm going to be able to tolerate these for two weeks until my ortho places a permanent bonded lower retaining wire and has my regular upper retainer ready. (I had one one of these the first time I had braces in high school and, although I had trouble speaking at first, I didn't have the gagging problem). Any suggestions?

PS Should my teeth be feeling so loose that I can actually see them move if I push????

#2 Post by **Sweetie** » Fri Aug 08, 2008 7:13 am

Today i got my clear retainers and for me they have to much plastic touching my gums front and back and i am experiencing the same thing you are experiencing. I already took them out also the upper ones doesn't really fit my front teethe and they accumulate a lot of saliva. I don't think I can go around smiling with saliva in front teeth. horrible.

#3 Post by **acrowell** » Tue Aug 12, 2008 9:54 pm

Sweetie,

I went back to my ortho, and he personally (rather than his assistants) ground/filed down the inside of both retainers, and the problem immediately disappeared.

I've had them for a week now, and they aren't giving me any problems. I agree, the way they trap saliva is gross, but mine are only temporary...are your's permanent?