Your retainer is a crucial part of your orthodontic treatment. After you have gone through months (or years) of braces, you want to be certain that your teeth stay straight. Unfortunately, removable retainers are quite small and can be easy to misplace. If you have lost your retainer and are wondering what to do now, you have come to the right place.
Today, Dr. Harrison’s team at Parkcrest Dental Group will discuss the steps you should take if you think your retainer is lost.
How soon after losing my retainer should I contact my orthodontist?
As soon as possible.
Losing your retainer is not a good feeling, but it happens to many patients. Once you are sure that your retainer is lost, it is time to contact your orthodontist. It can take time to make a new retainer. At times, your orthodontist may need to take new impressions.
While admitting to losing your retainer may be a little embarrassing, it’s essential that you don’t put off getting in touch with your orthodontist. Ignoring your retainer can quickly undo the work that your braces did. Although a replacement retainer may be expensive, it’s certainly less expensive than another round of braces.
Related Post: Tips for Taking Care of Retainers
How do I keep from losing my retainer?
Obviously, the best thing you can do is to ensure you don’t lose your retainer in the first place.
If you still have your retainer and you are looking to keep it safe, consider the following tips:
- Keep your retainer in its case when it isn’t in use. Your case will not only protect your retainer but will also make it much more distinguishable.
- Keep your retainer away from children or pets. Pets have been known to destroy retainers by chewing on them. Children can be just as destructive if they think they’ve found a colorful toy.
- Don’t wrap them in tissue paper. This is likely the number one way people lose their retainer. Wrapping your retainer in paper to dry it off while you eat is a good way to end up accidentally throwing it away. Keep it in your case instead to avoid making an expensive mistake.
Related Post: How to Keep Your Retainer Clean
Who is a top orthodontist in Springfield, Missouri?
If you are looking for an orthodontist who will do everything in his power to help you develop a great smile, contact the office of Dr. Harrison at Parkcrest Dental Group today.
