Essix moving opposite arch?????

[style1983]

Hi, I recently finished using my Inman Aligner (upper arch), and was given an Essix retainer to hold teeth in their final position. I have noticed that my bottom front teeth appear to have slightly shifted. They were not perfect before but it wasn't noticeable. I think I must be biting down overnight and the pressure from the Essix is pushing my bottom teeth.

Is this possible?

[TumbleDryLow]

I don't think biting into an Essix would affect how they hold teeth especially since an Essix wraps entirely around each tooth. I suppose anything is possible though.

I also have a Essix (after traditional braces) and I don't bite mine and wear mine every night without fail. The retainer has kept my teeth 98% perfect--not 100%. I've noticed some slight changes in the year since my debanding. Nothing anyone else would notice and nothing that I care that much about. Others may argue, but my personal 2 cents---I really don't think retainers always hold teeth 100%. They may for some, in my case they didn't and maybe you are the same. Luckily I'm OK with 98% because I'm not really sure what there is to be done. Talk to your ortho if you are really concerned. If you have pictures from then to now that show the changes, take them in and show your ortho.

[Katvo]

Yes- it is indeed possible that if you're biting down overnight your essix is causing a change in your bite. My essix moved my upper anterior teeth during the month that I waited to get my hawley back from the lab. (No worries- my hawley fits beautifully and has those teeth perfectly aligned again.)

Talk with your ortho about the changes you are seeing. He/she should have a good idea as to how to correct the issue.

-Kat