Troubleshooting Issues with Clear Retainers After Orthodontic Treatment

Incompatible clear aligners?

After completing the treatment with clear aligners, I visited the clinic where the dentist took impressions and charged me NT$10,000 for the clear retainers, informing me that there would be a two-week manufacturing period.
Two weeks later, during my follow-up appointment, the dentist assisted me in trying to wear the clear retainers, but there was an issue where neither the upper nor lower retainers fit.
The dentist mentioned that this could be due to the teeth shifting or the retainers being improperly made, and that I would need to have new impressions taken and wait another two weeks for the retainers to be remade.

During the two-week wait for the retainers, I consistently wore my final set of clear aligners except when eating.
I find it hard to accept the dentist's explanation, and he stated that since the retainers are custom-made, there is no possibility of a refund, and I would have to wait for the new retainers to be made.

I would like to know if, in this situation, I am only able to wait for the new retainers to see if they fit, and whether I cannot request a refund from the dentist and have the retainers made at another clinic? Additionally, is it common for clear retainers to have fitting issues? Thank you.

Tōngmíng wéichí qì, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/02/14

Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry

It is recommended to communicate with your physician, as there is indeed a necessity for retainers after completing orthodontic treatment to prevent the well-aligned teeth from shifting.
Dr.
Tseng Guang-Hui, Department of Dentistry, Nantou Hospital.

Reply Date: 2023/02/14

More Info

When it comes to troubleshooting issues with clear retainers after orthodontic treatment, it’s important to understand the underlying reasons for the discomfort or fit issues you are experiencing. Clear retainers, often made from a flexible plastic material, are custom-fitted to the shape of your teeth after orthodontic treatment. However, there are several factors that can lead to problems with fit, including changes in tooth position, inaccuracies in the impressions taken, or manufacturing errors.

In your case, it seems that after the initial fitting of the clear retainer, you encountered difficulties with both the upper and lower retainers not fitting properly. The orthodontist suggested that this could be due to your teeth shifting or the retainers being made incorrectly. It’s not uncommon for teeth to shift slightly after braces are removed, especially if retainers are not worn consistently. However, if you have been diligent in wearing your last set of aligners, it raises questions about the accuracy of the impressions or the fabrication of the retainers.

Regarding your concerns about the inability to receive a refund or switch to another dental practice, it’s essential to communicate openly with your orthodontist. While it is true that custom-made retainers are typically non-refundable due to their personalized nature, you should still express your dissatisfaction with the service and the outcome. Many orthodontic practices value patient feedback and may offer solutions, such as a discount on the next set of retainers or expedited service for the new impressions.

It’s also worth noting that issues with clear retainers not fitting properly can happen, but they should be addressed promptly. If your orthodontist is unable to resolve the issue satisfactorily, you have the right to seek a second opinion from another orthodontic practice. Before doing so, ensure that you have all relevant documentation, including your treatment records and any receipts, to facilitate a smooth transition.

In terms of what you can do while waiting for the new retainers, continue to maintain good oral hygiene and avoid any habits that could further shift your teeth, such as chewing on hard objects or using your teeth as tools. If you experience discomfort or pain, over-the-counter pain relief may help, but consult with your orthodontist if the discomfort persists.

In summary, while it may be frustrating to wait for new retainers, it’s crucial to communicate your concerns with your orthodontist and explore your options. If necessary, don’t hesitate to seek a second opinion to ensure you receive the best care possible. Remember, the goal of retainers is to maintain the results of your orthodontic treatment, and it’s essential that they fit properly to do so effectively.

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