A retainer is a custom-made orthodontic appliance designed to maintain the alignment of teeth after treatment with braces or aligners. Its function is to prevent relapse, where teeth naturally attempt to shift back toward their original positions. Consistent retainer wear is necessary because the ligaments and bone surrounding the teeth require time to stabilize. If a retainer is lost, damaged, or no longer fits correctly, a replacement must be sought to ensure the teeth do not begin to move.
Immediate Steps When a Retainer Is Lost or Broken
Contact your orthodontist’s office immediately upon discovering a lost or broken retainer. Teeth can begin to shift rapidly without a retainer, especially in the months following the removal of braces or aligners. Prompt communication allows the clinical team to assess the urgency and schedule a replacement appointment quickly.
If you have a previous or backup retainer, wear it right away, even if it feels slightly tight. This acts as a temporary measure to minimize unwanted tooth movement until a new appliance is fabricated. Avoid attempting to repair a broken retainer yourself, as this can cause further damage or result in an improper fit.
The Clinical Process for Creating a New Retainer
The replacement process begins with an examination to determine if any tooth shifting has occurred. If the teeth have moved significantly, minor corrections may be needed before a new appliance can be fabricated.
The next step is creating a precise model of your current dental alignment. This is done by taking new impressions using either traditional putty material or a digital intraoral scanner. Digital scanning is a modern, quicker, and more comfortable method that creates a highly accurate three-dimensional image of your mouth.
This digital file or physical mold is then sent to a dental laboratory for custom fabrication. The laboratory process typically takes one to two weeks, depending on the retainer type. Once the new retainer returns, you will have a fitting appointment where the orthodontist checks the appliance for comfort and proper seating, making any necessary minor adjustments to ensure the retainer fits perfectly.
Understanding Replacement Costs and Retainer Types
The cost of replacing a retainer can vary widely, generally ranging from $150 to $500 per arch, depending on the type and the orthodontist’s location. Dental insurance coverage for replacement retainers is inconsistent, and many plans do not cover the cost of lost or damaged appliances. Always verify your specific policy’s replacement benefits.
You will typically be offered a choice between two main types of removable retainers:
- Hawley retainers: This traditional option is made of an acrylic base that sits against the palate or floor of the mouth, with a metal wire arching across the front teeth. They are durable and allow for minor adjustments.
- Clear plastic retainers: Often called Essix or vacuum-formed retainers, these are transparent trays that fit snugly over the entire arch, offering a discreet appearance. They are nearly invisible but may wear out and require replacement more frequently.
A third option is a bonded retainer, which is a thin wire permanently cemented to the back surfaces of the front teeth. This is only feasible if your original treatment plan included this type.
Essential Care to Avoid Future Replacement
Preventing damage or loss is the best way to avoid the time and expense of replacement. The most common cause of loss is improperly storing the appliance when it is out of the mouth. Always place your retainer directly into its protective case immediately after removing it, and never wrap it in a napkin or tissue.
Cleaning should be a daily routine, using a soft-bristled brush and non-abrasive soap or a specialized cleaner. Avoid using toothpaste, as it can scratch the material. Never expose your retainer to high heat, such as hot water or leaving it in a hot car, as the plastic can warp irreversibly and render the appliance ineffective.