How to Fix Cracked Retainers (At Home)

In order to prevent further damage to your teeth, it’s important to address a cracked retainer as soon as possible. When your retainer cracks, it can cause your teeth to shift back to their original position. Retainers are custom-made orthodontic appliances that help maintain your teeth’s alignment after braces. In this article, we’ll explore some steps you can take to fix a cracked retainer and keep your teeth straight.

How to fix a cracked retainer? 

Step 1. Determine if the retainer has been damaged

Step 2. Use a nail file to file edges

Step 3. Surface of dental plastic should be cleaned

Step 4. Adhere the edges with DENTAL glue

Step 5. After the Retainer has dried, scrape off any excess glue and wash it

Step 7. Test the usability of the retainer

The materials used for dental plastics, such as retainers, are often flexible yet durable, but sometimes they can fracture or break. It is common for dental plastics to be damaged, especially when children and teens aren’t wearing them properly, such as mouth guards, dentures, and removable retainers.

DENTAL GLUE can be used to repair some simple cracks, while some cracks may require a dentist’s intervention. You can quickly and easily fix a crack or slight wear in your retainers by following these simple steps.

Determine if the Retainer has Been Damaged

Determine what damage has been caused to the retainer before deciding how to fix it. Make sure there are no sharp edges or chipped pieces in the mouth.

Use a Nail File to File Edges

Use a nail file to smooth down the edges once you find the damage. In order for the pieces to fit together well, file the broken sections in the same direction.

Here are some Quora answers on the matter.

Surface of Dental Plastic Should be Cleaned

If plastic residual shards have fallen off during the filing process, carefully wash the broken surface of the dental plastic with a toothbrush.

Adhere the edges with DENTAL GLUE.

Ensure that the acrylic bonding, waterproof, plastic, or dental glue you choose is not toxic, since it will be placed in the mouth. Follow the instructions carefully to determine how much glue is needed and how long it will take to dry. Check whether the broken pieces of the plastic retainer fit well together by putting them together. To reattach the pieces, apply glue only to one side of the broken retainer and push them together gently.

After the Retainer has Dried, Scrape off Any Excess Glue and Wash it

Let the glue dry for the time indicated on the glue label by holding the two pieces together. Scrape off any excess glue from the retainer and file any raised spots or ridges once the pieces are perfectly adhered and the glue has dried. In order to avoid bacteria or germs entering the mouth, wash the retainers thoroughly after scraping off the excess glue. A toothbrush can be used to clean it carefully.

Test the Usability of the Retainer

You can now try your retainer in your mouth to see if it sets properly after it has been fixed. Any uncomfortable edges should be filed off if they don’t feel right. After the crack has been repaired, the retainer should function normally. Your dentist should be consulted if it doesn’t.

FAQ’s

How do I know if my retainer is damaged?

Your retainer may be damaged if it does not fit properly or does not function properly. A professional should inspect it to determine if it can be repaired or if it needs to be replaced.

How should I handle a damaged retainer?

In the event that your retainer is damaged, you should have it checked by a professional as soon as possible in order to continue your treatment and to prevent your teeth from shifting, unless you want to try the DIY route outlined in our article. The best course of action will be determined by your orthodontist or dentist after assessing the damage.

Are spare retainers a good idea?

Having a spare set of retainers is always a good idea in case your current ones are damaged or lost. As a result, your treatment will not be interrupted, and your teeth will remain aligned properly.

Can I Still Wear My Cracked Retainer?

Retainers are designed to push and fix your teeth into proper alignment. A retainer’s integrity must be faultless if it is to exert pressure on your teeth. In the event of a serious crack or split in half in the retainer, you will not be able to use it. Therefore, wearing a broken retainer will have no benefit for you. Waiting until your new retainer is made would be the best course of action.

Conclusion

It is relatively easy and simple to repair a cracked retainer, provided that the retainer works well after the repair. If a retainer is not fitting or functioning properly, the dentist must check for any possible breaks since most dental appliances are custom-made for every mouth.

You should act quickly if your retainer is damaged in order to continue treatment by your orthodontist. Regardless of the type of retainer you have, if it does not seem to be working at home, speak to a professional. Retainers may be repaired or replaced in the dentist’s office depending on the extent of the damage. Lastly, have a spare set of retainers made, so in case your current retainers are damaged, you will always have a spare pair, preventing any interruption to your treatment.

Disclaimer – This article is intended to promote understanding of and knowledge about orthodontics and general oral health topics. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your orthodontist or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment.

How to Fix Cracked Retainers (At Home)

Perry Stevens

Perry heads up a dynamic marketing team that has help the leading orthodontic practices in the USA 10X their business for over a decade. He’s a tea connoisseur, avid reader, traveling and grower of exotic fruits in his permaculture food forest.