Orthodontics: What to Do if Your Retainer Breaks

Orthodontics Sacramento, CA

A retainer serves the important role of preserving the teeth and jaw’s alignment after orthodontics. The retainer device can be removable or fixed. Accidents or improper maintenance can cause the retainer to break or loosen from the teeth. When this occurs, patients need to know what to do. Replacing a removable broken retainer is somewhat simple. A broken fixed retainer needs to be removed by the dentist.

If the retainer breaks

Patients need to wear the retainers consistently after completing the orthodontics process. When the teeth are aligned, it takes some time for them to get used to the new positions. The retainer helps prevent the teeth from moving back to their previous positions. If the device breaks accidentally or comes off the teeth, the following are steps to take:

Reach out to the dental office

Patients need to contact the dental office as soon as possible once they discover their retainer is broken or cracked, especially if the teeth straightening treatment only just recently ended. The teeth will start to move if the retainer is not worn for the minimum amount of time. If the teeth shift too far, additional orthodontic treatment will be required to reverse the changes.

Check the retainer

If the damage to the retainer is not so serious, it might still be possible to manage it. However, if the crack is deep or the retainer splits into two, wearing it is impossible, and patients will need to wait until the new retainer is ready.

A close friend or family can check a fixed retainer with a flashlight. Fixed retainers are bonded to the back of the teeth to limit movement. Eating hard foods or candies can weaken the bond and loosen the retainer. If the person ascertains the retainer has lost its hold, patients need to stick with soft foods to avoid additional damages until a trip to the dentist is possible. The dental professional might be able to reattach the retainer.

Switch to a removable retainer if the fixed ones keep breaking

If a fixed retainer keeps coming loose, patients can consider switching to a removable retainer. Removable retainers can be taken out at will and usually only need to be worn while sleeping. It is also easier to maintain them—the only cause to store them in the carrying case when not in use and cleaning them regularly.

In conclusion

When it comes to choosing between a permanent or removable retainer, the dentist can help you choose the best option based on your needs. It is necessary to wear the retainers as directed to prevent the teeth from shifting. Typically, unless in special cases, the dentist may not recommend fixed retainers due to oral hygiene and food limitations. Also, when there are concerns about breaking the permanent retainer, a removable retainer might be preferable.

If the retainer breaks, the point is this: book an appointment with the dentist immediately to have it checked. The dental professional will work on repairing or replacing it to keep your teeth aligned.

Request an appointment here: https://www.sacramentosleepdentist.com or call Dental Excellence of Greenhaven at (916) 293-0504 for an appointment in our Sacramento office.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Orthodontics in Sacramento, CA.

Recent Posts

Debunking Root Canal Myths: How This Procedure Protects Oral Health

The term "root canal" often causes anxiety in patients. This fear is largely due to misconceptions surrounding this dental procedure. However, a root canal is an effective treatment that can relieve pain, save a natural tooth, and prevent further complications. By understanding the most common myths about root canals, patients can approach this treatment with…

Enhancing Your Smile With A Cosmetic Dentist

A cosmetic dentist can help correct tooth imperfections and enhance a smile's appearance. From whiter teeth to overall smile improvement, cosmetic dentistry has something to offer just about everyone. If you are considering cosmetic dentistry, here is some key information to help you decide if it is right for you.Any dental treatment where the key…

How Cosmetic Dentists Transform Crooked Teeth

Curious about what a cosmetic dentist can do for crooked teeth? Read on to learn more. Only a few people have perfectly aligned teeth. Crooked teeth affect the smile’s appearance, as well as oral health and function. A cosmetic dentist offers various solutions to straighten the teeth, ranging from braces and aligners to dental veneers.Teeth-straightening…

Myths Vs. Facts About Dental Anxiety

Dental anxiety is a common issue that affects people of all ages. This term refers to the fear, anxiety, or stress of dental visits. There are several misconceptions about dental anxiety, leading to additional fear or avoidance of necessary dental care. By separating facts from fiction, patients can better understand this condition and go to…

Recent Posts

Debunking Root Canal Myths: How This Procedure Protects Oral Health

Debunking Root Canal Myths: How This Procedure Protects Oral Health

The term "root canal" often causes anxiety in patients. This fear is largely due to misconceptions surrounding this dental procedure. However, a root canal is an effective treatment that can relieve pain, save a natural tooth, and prevent further complications. By understanding the most common myths about root canals, patients can approach this treatment with…

Enhancing Your Smile With A Cosmetic Dentist

Enhancing Your Smile With A Cosmetic Dentist

A cosmetic dentist can help correct tooth imperfections and enhance a smile's appearance. From whiter teeth to overall smile improvement, cosmetic dentistry has something to offer just about everyone. If you are considering cosmetic dentistry, here is some key information to help you decide if it is right for you.Any dental treatment where the key…