A member asked:

Is it bad to put dental wax on the tips of my clear plastic retainer where i grind the most, because i don't want to chew through it? is this bad?

10 doctors weighed in across 9 answers
Dr. Arman Dayan answered

Specializes in Cosmetic Dentistry

Perhaps: The wax wont help with the grinding and toy will end up eating most of it. Get yourself a dentist made night guard.

Answered 5/2/2013

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Dr. Brian Hoffman answered

Specializes in Dentistry

New Retainer Needed: Your retainer should be able to withstand your grinding...That was what your dentist made it for. Dental wax has no hardness and will do little to stop the destruction of a night guard, so i would go back to your dentist for a re-evaluation regarding type, fit and use of your dentally-fabricated, custom night guard.

Answered 8/26/2016

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Useless to do: Only the dentist can adjust the biting so as to make it even throughout.

Answered 3/31/2013

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Not bad but no help: Wax on your retainer won't hurt it, but it's also too soft to prevent wear and tear. Clear plastic retainers typically last a few to several years depending on your grinding habits and what it's made of. If you need a heartier retainer, consult with the dentist or orthodontist who made your retainer to see if they can make you a thicker or more durable one (thicker also means not as comfortable).

Answered 11/11/2014

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No: It will just wear off. It is too soft. If you should wear through it then have another one made.

Answered 5/18/2017

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It's not bad: Putting dental wax on your retainer is not bad, and will not harm the retainer. However, I do not believe that it will stop you from chewing through the retainer.

Answered 11/11/2014

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Not bad-won't work: It's unlikely the wax will prevent wearing through the plastic. We would rather you "grind" plastic than tooth. Replacing retainers is simple compared to replacing tooth surfaces. Speak to your orthodontic specialist about the option of a nightguard or bruxism splint to supplement your retainer to give you more of a "skating rink" for your grinding.

Answered 5/28/2017

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Will not help: If you are not wearing through the aligners now, do not worry about it. Since you use a new aligner about every 2 weeks, they should not wear through.

Answered 11/9/2015

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Ineffective: Wax will not prevent damage due to grinding. If you do grind your teeth you may need a different type of retainer and/or an Occlusal Orthotic (night guard). Please see your Dentist or (preferably) an Orthodontic Specialist for evaluation.

Answered 8/18/2016

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