Problems with my Retainers

My retainer has broken/distorted/has been lost/eaten by a dog and I need a new one, what should I do?

Please email the practice, to arrange an appointment to have your current retainers checked. If new retainers a new digital scan taken for a replacement retainer to be made. Please be aware charges apply to replace retainers (refer to our fees page).

My removable retainer/s have cracks/splits/holes in them, is this a problem?

Cracks – you may find that there are some hairline cracks on the biting surfaces of you retainer. This is ok as long as they are not splits and are actually opening.

Splits – what we look for with splits is that they are not opening when they are seated (placed over the teeth). If the split is opening when seated then this may mean you need a new retainer. If it is sitting flush then hopefully this is ok for a while and it is still holding, however we cannot guarantee this.

Holes – sometimes you will find that there are small holes appearing on the biting surfaces of the teeth, this is fine, unless they have become large and/or cause splits along the retainer. If you are at all unsure, please send pictures of the retainers in the mouth, of the concerned area and also out of the mouth

Problems with my fixed (bonded) retainer.

Some glue has come away from my fixed retainer, what should I do?

A: Please email the practice, so we can arrange an appointment to see you to repair this. Please be aware there is a charge for this service. It is important that you wear your removable retainers for a minimum of 10/12 hours per day, until we can see you to repair your broken bonded retainer, this is to help prevent any tooth movement.

My bonded retainer has come away completely

A: Please email the practice to arrange an appointment to fit a new bonded retainer. Please ensure you are wearing your removable retainers every day for a minimum of 10/12hours to prevent any tooth movement.

Part of my bonded retainer has come away and is hanging down, what can I do?

A: Please contact the practice and we can arrange an appointment to see you. if you are currently wearing your removable retainers full time, then this will hold it in place in this time.

If you are wearing your removable retainers nights only then dry the area really well and try the wax to hold it in place so not to irritate you during the day

I don’t have any wax, can I buy it from the shops?

A: It isn’t commonly available but some larger Boots stores may stock orthodontic wax.

Please could you post me some wax?

A: Yes of course for a 75p fee and £1 postage charge payable over the phone

Taking Photos at Home – ‘Step by Step Guide’