#78 Tooth Gems & Retainers

There’s a big difference between tooth gems with retainers vs on retainers — and most people don’t think about the long-term consequences.
This week’s episode breaks down the two trends, what’s actually safe, and why one of them could be an expensive regret.

00:00 – Intro: Truth or Trend: Tooth Gems & Retainers – what’s safe, what’s risky
00:58 – Quick ortho math: Why retainers are $$$ (then and now)
01:20 – Two questions to ask: Under a retainer vs on a retainer
01:32 – Hawleys vs Essex: How retainer style changes gem safety
01:58 – Essex fit factors: Thickness, flexibility, and why tight = pop-off risk
02:20 – Safe gem sizes under retainers: Why SS2–SS3 might survive, navettes probably won’t
02:41 – The “on the retainer” problem: Permanence + long retainer lifespan
03:00 – Adhesive reality check: Yellow etch means that gem’s not coming off
03:20 – Patient commitment warning: Why you need informed consent for retainer designs
03:29 – Fit concerns vs aesthetic regret: Why fit isn’t the issue — it’s the “I’m over this design” factor
03:50 – Truth or trend verdict:

• On the retainer = trend (likely to fade)

• On teeth under retainers = truth (here to stay with the right gem + retainer match)

04:10 – Final mic-drop: Choose the gem for the retainer, not the other way around

Thank you to our sponsor Fern Whitening Supplies.