What to Do if Your Retainer Breaks: Expert Tips From Dominion Orthodontics
A retainer is an essential part of maintaining your beautifully aligned smile after orthodontic treatment. But what happens if your retainer breaks? Whether it’s cracked, bent, or completely snapped, knowing the right steps to take can prevent setbacks in your orthodontic journey. In this blog, Dominion Orthodontics shares practical advice on what to do if your retainer breaks, repair options, and how to avoid common mistakes.
Assess the Damage
The first step is to inspect your retainer to determine the extent of the damage. Is it a minor crack, a bent wire, or is it completely broken? If possible, take pictures to share with your orthodontist during your consultation.
Continue Wearing Your Damaged Retainer Until Replacement
While a broken retainer isn't ideal, we recommend continuing to wear your Essix retainer until we can provide a replacement. This helps maintain your teeth's alignment and prevents shifting. However, if the damage is severe or causing discomfort, contact your orthodontist for guidance. In the meantime, store your retainer properly when not in use to avoid further damage.
What If You Have a Hawley Retainer?
If your Hawley retainer (the hard acrylic and wire type) is damaged, stop wearing it immediately. A broken wire or cracked acrylic can cause injury to your mouth or fail to keep your teeth properly aligned. Contact your orthodontist as soon as possible to get a replacement or repair. Until then, keep your retainer stored safely to prevent further damage.
Call Your Orthodontist
Your next step is to schedule an appointment with your orthodontist as soon as possible. They will assess the damage and recommend the best course of action, whether it’s repairing your retainer or replacing it entirely.
Tip: Dominion Orthodontics offers prompt assistance for retainer issues. Schedule a free consultation today to get expert help!
Maintain Your Teeth Alignment
While waiting for your appointment, take extra care to maintain your teeth alignment. Follow your orthodontist’s instructions, and avoid habits like chewing on hard or sticky foods that could exacerbate the situation.
Tip: If you’ve recently stopped wearing your retainer due to damage, your orthodontist may advise temporary solutions like wearing an older retainer or other orthodontic devices.
Additional Tips:
Avoid DIY Repairs: It may be tempting to fix your retainer with glue or other household items, but this can be harmful and compromise its effectiveness. Always seek professional help.
Know the Signs of Wear and Tear: Regularly inspect your retainer for cracks, bends, or loose wires to catch problems early.
Have a Backup Plan: If possible, consider investing in a backup retainer to avoid interruptions in your treatment.
A broken retainer doesn’t have to derail your orthodontic progress. By acting quickly, consulting your orthodontist, and following expert advice, you can protect your smile and get back on track in no time. At Dominion Orthodontics, we’re here to help you navigate every step of your orthodontic journey.
If your retainer is broken or you have concerns, don’t wait—schedule a free consultation today and let our expert team provide the care and solutions you need!
