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A shift in teeth causing tongue to be bit?
I had braces many years ago. When they were removed, permanent wires were placed on the top and bottom of my teeth. I was given the wire retainers. I recently had these permanent wires removed after 20 years. I was given new retainers--essix. I've been wearing the new essix retainers at night for a week now. After a few days, the bite and/or position of my teeth has shifted causing my teeth to 'bite down' on the left side of my tongue. This was something that happened at times when I had the permanent wires and the occurrence seemed to depend on how many hours I wore the wire retainers BUT--it was very minor. Now, the teeth 'biting down' on the left side of my tongue is causing my tongue to hurt to the point where it hurts to swallow and chew food. I did not wear the new retainers for one night and it seems to be a little better. I'm assuming the bite shifted back to a position to where my tongue is not biting down on. I haven't seen this particular problem when I searched for it online. Is a shift in the teeth to the point where they bite down on the tongue a rare occurrence with orthodontic patients?
6 Answers
Your question about shifting teeth and tongue biting being a rare occurrence gets the annoying, unsatisfactory answer that it depends . First, I have 59 years experience as an orthodontist, but humble about all we dont really know for sure. That said, congratulations for 20 years of fixed retention, you were free at last until the Essix retainers, which I do not approve of for many reasons because they do not allow teeth to settle and I doubt you need further retention after 20 years,so give nature a chance to adapt without any interference or intervention and your tongue to adapt to a settled bite. If you have gained weight your tongue could be larger than it was, so be mindful of all the problems brought on by being overweight I doubt you ever thought of this. Fatter cheek pads can also get bit when chewing if molars are in cross bite.Proper tongue posture and function is another story that can be overlooked, but I think you will improve by discontinuing the Essix retainers and figure out why and when you bite your tongue. Dr. Harrison
I am not a fan of essex retainer, it causes space between upper and lower teeth which would create a space for your tongue. this happens to make room for the plastic of the retainers. your teeth can intrude a little. I would go back to wire retainers like a hawley
A note shift is a rare occurrence, especially after such a long time. Definitely discuss this with your doctor as a different retainer design may be needed
Sounds like your teeth shifted after the start of the Essix retainers. See your dental office for a bite adjustment and possibly the need for new retainers.
My personal opinion here- not necessarily a central dogma- shifting teeth more likely related to ongoing and possibly unmanaged parafunctional habits (clenching and grinding). Strengthened and enlarged chewing muscles likely ‘force’ the cheek tissues toward the chewing surfaces of the teeth = cheek biting.
Parafunctional habit management can allow muscle relaxation and less cheek biting.
Firstly, it is a good thing that your cemented retainers were removed. Their removal makes it much easier to keep your teeth clean and your gums healthy. You should find brushing and flossing easier and more efficient. Nightly Essex retainer wear should hold all of your teeth in their proper position, so I don't think that their use is causing shifting of your teeth and biting of your tongue. Sometimes, once you bite your tongue (by accident), it becomes swollen and sore. Now because it is swollen, it continues to get in your way and you continue to bite it. A nasty cycle. Try using ice on the side of your tongue to decrease the swelling after your bite it. Keep on wearing your retainers, they are innocent.