Introduction
If you’ve recently started wearing a retainer and are feeling a little sore, don’t worry, it’s perfectly normal, and in most cases, this will wear off in just a few days. In this guide, we’ll explore retainer pain and discomfort, what’s normal, and what may be a sign that you should seek further advice. We’ll also discuss ways to minimize any discomfort you may have.
Understanding Retainer Discomfort
Our mouths are sensitive, and it’s unsurprising that a retainer can cause a certain level of discomfort as we adjust to our new retainer regime. However, there is a big difference between feeling a little pressure or soreness, which is to be expected during the adjustment phase, and being in a lot of pain, which is abnormal and could be a sign that something is wrong.
So how do you know what is normal and what is not? Check out our list below.
If you’re only experiencing normal symptoms, then there’s no need to worry. Although it may feel uncomfortable for a while, you can expect any feeling of discomfort to fade over the next few days and eventually disappear entirely. Soon enough, you’ll barely notice you’re even wearing a retainer.
Normal vs. Abnormal Pain
Here’s what you should expect:
- Mild pressure or tightness
- Slight soreness in the first few days
- Temporary speech changes
- Minor gum sensitivity
Common Pressure Points
Some areas of the mouth can feel more sensitive. You may notice an increased sensitivity in your back molars, the roof of your mouth, your front teeth, and your gum line. Again, this is usually considered to be normal and will diminish over time.
How long will the discomfort last?
Most people experience:
- Initial discomfort: 2-3 days
- Mild pressure: up to 1 week
- Complete comfort: within 2 weeks
What’s not normal:
- Sharp, stabbing pain
- Bleeding gums
- Severe headaches
- Persistent jaw pain
If you’re experiencing any symptoms that are not within the normal limits of retainer discomfort, we suggest you book an appointment with your orthodontist, who will check to see if there are any issues with your retainer that could be causing these problems.
Why Do Retainers Hurt: Understanding the Causes
Now, let’s explore the reasons behind that discomfort, so you can better understand the causes and why this is part of the process. When you learn that the uncomfortable feelings you’re experiencing are normal and temporary, you have peace of mind that nothing is wrong and that it won’t last long.
Initial Adjustment Period
Your mouth needs time to adapt. Think of it like breaking in new shoes. The first few days might be a little troublesome, but it gets better. During this time, your teeth are settling into position, your soft tissues are adjusting, and your muscles are adapting to the presence of the retainer. It might feel weird at first, but over the next few days you’ll notice it less and less until any discomfort disappears completely.
Poor Fit Issues
Sometimes the problem isn’t adaptation but the fit. If you’re experiencing discomfort beyond the first few days, or the level of pain you’re feeling goes beyond slightly uncomfortable, it could be that your retainer is incorrectly fitted, and you need to visit an orthodontist to have it checked out. It may be that your retainer is too tight or the wrong size, pressure points are uneven, or the material may have warped.
Material Reactions
Some people also experience discomfort due to acrylic sensitivity, metal allergies, chemical reactions, or material degradation.
A skilled orthodontist such as Dr. Matthew Durschlag of San Diego Smile Pros will be able to determine the root cause of your problems and ensure that you experience no pain or discomfort going forward.
Managing Retainer Discomfort
If you’re feeling pain, then it’s advisable to get it checked out, as only mild pressure and discomfort are usual with retainer wear, and even then, only in the early days of wearing a new retainer. But otherwise, there are several ways in which you can relieve the discomfort while you wait for your mouth to adjust to your new retainer.
Here’s what you can do:
Immediate Relief Methods
Try these quick fixes:
- Over-the-counter pain relievers
- Cold water rinses
- Ice pack on the outside of your cheeks
- Orthodontic wax on pressure points
Long-term Solutions
For lasting comfort:
- Maintain proper wear schedule
- Keep retainers clean
- Follow care instructions
- Regular professional checks
Professional Adjustments
Sometimes you may need expert help:
- Minor adjustments
- Fit corrections
- Material modifications
- Professional cleaning
Prevention Strategies
Some cases of retainer pain are due to improper use and care. Prevention is always better than cure, so be sure to follow the guidelines for proper wear offered by your orthodontist. You’ll minimize the risks of experiencing retainer pain if you wear your retainer consistently, as directed, without skipping days. You should also clean your retainer every day, store it properly so it can’t be bent or broken, keep it out of the heat, and handle it with care.
You should also attend regular check-ups. According to the American Association of Orthodontists, regular check-ups are crucial for:
- Ensuring proper fit
- Catching issues early
- Maintaining alignment
- Preventing discomfort
Signs of Serious Issues
A little discomfort is normal, but pain may signal bigger problems and should be checked out.
When to Contact Your Orthodontist
Get help if you notice:
- Persistent pain
- Changes in bite
- Cracked retainer
- Severe discomfort
Warning Signs
Watch out for:
- Cuts or sores
- Tooth movement
- Jaw pain
- Headaches
Emergency Situations
Seek immediate care for:
- Severe pain
- Breathing difficulties
- Allergic reactions
- Broken retainer pieces
Solutions and Treatment Options
So you’ve had your retainer checked out by a professional orthodontist and they’ve found a problem. What happens next? Depending on the issue, your orthodontist can make adjustments to your retainer, such as reshaping it, smoothing out rough spots, adjusting pressure points, and fixing minor damage. This may put an end to your pain problems, but in some cases, you may need to go a step further and get a new retainer. You may require an alternative choice of material, a different design, or updated impressions. Or perhaps an entirely different type of retainer would suit you better. Choose a highly regarded orthodontic practice such as San Diego Smile Pros, and you can rest assured that the perfect solution will be offered to you.
Conclusion
Understanding why retainers hurt is the first step to finding relief. Remember, most discomfort is temporary and normal. With proper care, maintenance, and professional guidance, you can maintain your beautiful smile in comfort, but it’s also important to know when the pain you’re experiencing is not within normal limits and requires further investigation.
San Diego residents can depend on Dr. Durschlag from San Diego Smile Pros to deliver the highest-quality orthodontic treatment. Dr. Matthew Durschlag is a board-certified orthodontist with a wealth of experience and a whole host of happy clients with beautiful smiles. His specialist skills ensure the successful treatment of even the most complex conditions, including all types of orthodontics, Invisalign, clear and metal braces, lingual braces, TADs (temporary anchorage devices), fixing open bites, crowding, overbites, surgical cases, and more!
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Frequently Asked Questions
Should my retainer hurt after not wearing it for a while?
Some discomfort is normal when resuming retainer wear after a break. The pain should subside within a few days of consistent wear.
How do I know if my retainer doesn’t fit properly?
If you experience excessive pressure, gaps between the retainer and teeth, or difficulty inserting/removing it, these could be signs of a poor fit.
Can I adjust my retainer at home?
No, never attempt to adjust your retainer yourself. This could damage the retainer or harm your teeth. Always have your retainer adjusted by a professional.
Why does my retainer hurt more at night?
Nighttime discomfort often occurs because you’re wearing the retainer for an extended period. Your teeth might also be more sensitive at this time.
How long should retainer pain last?
Initial discomfort should decrease within 3-5 days. However, if it persists beyond two weeks, consult your orthodontist.
Can a retainer cause permanent damage?
When properly fitted and worn as directed, retainers should not cause permanent damage. However, ill-fitting or damaged retainers might cause problems if not addressed.
