Parents of pre-teens with a retainer, could you help??

Question

How long did it take for your child to be able to eat normally with it in? I was surprised to learn that she had to leave it in while eating, so we're a bit baffled and soon to be resorting to milk shakes! Any help/ advice would be appreciated. Thank you! :)

Answer 1

Unless this is a fixed retainer, one that doesn't come out during flossing and brushing, then it needs to be removed during eating.

If you are unsure, check with the dentist or Orthodontist, they will be able to tell you without seeing your child.

Additional information:  I'm afraid that you may have misunderstood your child's orthodontist directions.  The normal directions for a removable retainer is to wear it 24/7 "EXCEPT" when eating, flossing and brushing.  As for sports, a different type of retainer or what is called a "sports guard" will be needed to protect the teeth from any blows.  Allowing your child to eat with the retainer in place can cause damage to the retainer.  Check back with the ortho to be safe.

Additional information:  It would be helpful if I knew which retainer your child has.  I am unaware of any "removable retainer" that is made to be worn while eating; removable ones won't stay in place during mastication.  I would suggest you check back with your orthodontist.  This is a site that may offer you some information about different retainers.

  http://www.archwired.com/Retainers_Dr_Bu...

Answer 2

It's safe to eat with out them.  As with anything that modifies growth and development.  There is nothing set in stone. obviously the extra time  with the retainer in the mouth would help the teeth stay in place,  but, and you need to think here, the time spent during sleep and the rest of the day far out-wieghs the time spent with the retainers off.  So you can safely remove for the brief time during eating without too much worry.  

One reason I can see for keeping them on is.  Most of my patients that loose retainers loose them in the restaurant, when they remove them and safely wrap them in a napkin.  So they won't be seen or break when the waiter throws it in the trash.   After all you did say pre-teen so you know how responsible they are.

Ah ha,  Your orhtodontist may be wiser than we all know.

Good luck.

At $300 a set that may be considered a fine reason for making your child keep them in.