If your retainer breaks, don't panic! There are a few things you can do to fix the problem.
If the break is small, you can try to repair it yourself with some dental adhesive. If the break is bigger, or if you're not comfortable trying to repair it yourself, you can take it to your orthodontist or dentist and they'll be able to fix it for you.
In the meantime, be sure to avoid hard and sticky foods that could cause further damage to your retainer. And, if you're able to, try to wear your retainer as much as possible to keep your teeth from shifting back into their original positions.
If you take good care of your retainer, it should last for many years. But, if it does break, don't worry - there are solutions!
How often should I wear my retainer?
It is important to wear your retainer as often as possible if you want to keep your teeth in alignment. You should wear it at night while you sleep and also during the day when you are not eating or drinking. It is also important to take it out when you brush your teeth. You should try to wear your retainer for at least 20 minutes each day.
How do I know if my retainer is too loose?
If your retainer is too loose, it will no longer fit snugly against your teeth. You may notice that your retainer feels loose when you wear it, or you may see that it no longer lines up correctly with your teeth. If your retainer is significantly loose, it may fall out of your mouth when you eat or talk. If you think your retainer may be too loose, consult your orthodontist.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if my permanent retainer breaks?
If your permanent retainer breaks, you need to take steps to replace it as soon as possible. You can either get a new one from your orthodontist, or if you’re missing any teeth, you can purchase a temporary retainer online or in stores.
Can dental retainers get cracked or broken?
Yes, dental retainers can get cracked or broken because they are made of a flexible but durable material. Usually, when retainers are used by children or teens who don’t always wear them properly, they are vulnerable to damage. Damage may range from small scratches and dents to complete breaks and even loss of the tooth.
Can you use household adhesive on a broken retainer?
No, household adhesives should not be used on plastic retainers. You should approach a broken plastic retainer almost in the same way you would react to a lost retainer – by contacting your orthodontist to get a new one.
Can you fix a broken Invisalign retainer?
No, repair of a broken Invisalign retainer is not recommended and may cause further damage.
How do you fix a broken permanent retainer?
If the wire of the permanent retainer starts poking your tongue or bothering you before you can get it repaired, simply use a pencil eraser and push it back towards your teeth so it is less bothersome. That is usually effective until you’re able to visit your orthodontist to have the broken permanent retainer fixed.
