Broken retainer :(

[fleur26]

So I got my retainer 10 days ago, on the day I got it fitted I noticed there were a few little cracks on the top of the upper essix. I mentioned this to my Orthodontist who said that was normal as they tend to do that. Not to my surprise completely as they're still a bit tight to get in and out today the retainer split down the front. I called my orthodontist who said to come in on Friday and they can take a look at its I'm hoping it will hold out 3 days Til then... Has this happened to anyone before? I wonder why it broke so soon? Will I have to pay? And is it normal to be tight still after a week? X

[cherise25]

I had essix retainers for about a month before I got my Hawley retainers. They were very tight at first, but it got better after about two or three days. I am supposed to be able to wear either my Hawley or essix retainers but I mostly wear the hawleys because they are easier to get out and seem more sturdy. Switching back and forth between them is a little uncomfortable too.

[BracedSurgeryStudent]

How did the appointment go?

[fleur26]

Heya. The appointment went fine. The orthodontist made me a Hawley for my uppers and I went back a couple of days ago to pick up a hawley for my lowers too. Fingers crossed! I sincerely believe essix retainers are just too fragile for me and I'm a life long grinder too.