How Much Does It Cost To Repair Permanent Retainer?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

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How much do permanent retainers cost? A permanent, or bonded, retainer may cost from

$150 to $500

to put in place or replace if lost or broken.

Can you replace a permanent retainer?

Permanent retainers aren’t truly permanent. They’re only called “permanent” because they can’t be removed easily, unlike removable retainers. Permanent retainers do eventually wear out, but they’ve been known to last for upwards of 20 years.

When they wear out, they can be removed and replaced

.

Does it cost money to fix a broken retainer?

A plastic case is typically provided with the retainer, but extra cases ($1-$10) can be useful, to avoid losing or accidentally discarding the retainer. If the wire on a bonded retainers breaks or comes loose, repairs need to be done immediately and can cost

$75-$250 or more

.

Should I fix my permanent retainer?

However, your permanent retainer will age, so

you should either have it changed or removed one or more times during your life

. An orthodontist can advise you about your retainer and if it has been worn long enough or if it’s too soon to remove it. If your permanent retainer ages, it might simply come off.

How can I fix my permanent retainer at home?

Can any orthodontist fix permanent retainer?

If you don’t have the option of going to the orthodontist that did your braces or Invisalign, you should be able to

call almost any orthodontist to get the broken permanent retainer fixed

. When you call, you can ask for the costs associated with repairing a broken permanent retainer.

What happens if permanent retainer comes off?

What if my permanent retainer comes off?

Call the office to schedule an appointment to have it repaired

. Continue to wear your removable clear retainers and make sure you save the wire if it comes out completely. Bring your retainer and/or the wire with you to your scheduled appointment.

Do orthodontists keep retainer molds?

The good news is that

the orthodontist probably has kept the patient’s retainer molds

. The new retainer can be shipped down to the vacation spot, or the patient’s usual orthodontist can refer them to a local orthodontist.

How is a permanent retainer removed?

To remove a permanent retainer, your orthodontist will need to remove the bonding cement first with a specialized tool, generally a dental drill. Then, the wires and brackets can be detached. The final step will involve polishing your teeth.

Do permanent retainers break easily?


Most breaks happen within the first six months of having your permanent retainer

. Biting into hard foods is the number one cause of broken permanent retainers. They may also wear down over time if they stay in place long-term, requiring replacement later in life.

How long do permanent retainers stay in?

Permanent Retainer

In contrast, permanent retainers have been known to last

upwards of 20 years

with proper care! But they are not invincible and can still be damaged or become worn out.

Why does my permanent retainer keep breaking?


Applying too much pressure to the retainer can end up snapping the bonding material or wire and damaging your teeth

. If its shape is changed, the retainer won’t keep your teeth in their proper positions. If your retainer is bent or moves: Make an appointment to see your orthodontist.

Can I glue my broken retainer?

Please do not attempt to fix your broken retainer by yourself!

Using super glue or other household adhesive is not a proper solution

. Additionally, you will not be able to ensure that your retainer will remain effective. Get professional help by calling our office at (651) 686-6800.

Does insurance cover permanent retainers?


Some dental insurance plans cover up to half the cost of your overall orthodontics treatment, which should include the cost of retainers

. Combining insurance coverage with a payment plan can help you manage the cost over a few months or years, depending on the extent of orthodontics treatment you need.

Can you have MRI with permanent retainer?

Can I have an MRI exam if I have a permanent retainer or braces on my teeth?

The recommendation is not to scan a subject with retainers or braces because of distortion can occur that can affect the quality or the data

.

How often should you replace your permanent retainer?

In short, the answer depends on the type of retainer you have.

Bonded retainers, which are bonded to the back of your teeth, can last three years or more

. Conversely, removable alternatives have a shorter lifespan and typically last anywhere from six months to a few years.

How do you tell if your fixed retainer is broken?

How can I tell that my fixed retainer is broken? Most people cannot tell right away that the retainer is broken.

If the retainer is moving around at all, this could be a sign that the retainer is broken

. Many people only notice the retainer is broken once the teeth have shifted.

How long can I go without my retainer?

Most orthodontists agree that you should wear your retainer consistently for anywhere between

three to 12 months

post-treatment. You can then move to wearing your retainer only at night once your teeth have stabilized in their new position.

How expensive is a retainer?

What are the Different Types of Retainers? Retainers come in different types, each one with a corresponding price: Removable Hawley retainers are the most commonly used, and they cost around

$150–$300 for a single dental arch (upper OR lower), or $300–$600 for both arches (upper AND lower)

.

Maria LaPaige
Author
Maria LaPaige
Maria is a parenting expert and mother of three. She has written several books on parenting and child development, and has been featured in various parenting magazines. Maria's practical approach to family life has helped many parents navigate the ups and downs of raising children.