Retainer Repair

Orthodontic treatment doesn’t end when the braces come off or your last aligner is done. Retainers are essential for maintaining your new smile, and when they break, warp, or stop fitting properly, timely repair is key. At Dentistry for Families in North Las Vegas, we provide professional retainer repair and adjustment services for patients of all ages.

Whether your retainer has cracked, no longer fits, or has simply worn out over time, our team is here to restore it—or replace it—so you don’t lose the progress you’ve made with braces or clear aligners.

Why Retainers Matter After Orthodontic Treatment

Once your teeth have been moved into their ideal positions using braces, Invisalign, or clear aligners, they need time and support to stabilize. Retainers help your gums and bone structure adapt to the new alignment and prevent teeth from shifting back to their original positions.

But retainers aren’t indestructible. Over time, issues may develop:

• Cracks or breaks in plastic or wire components
• Warping due to heat exposure or improper cleaning
• Fit issues caused by missed wear or new dental growth
• Wear and tear from grinding or clenching

When this happens, your teeth may begin to move—sometimes in as little as a few weeks. That’s why prompt retainer repair is so important.

At Dentistry for Families, we repair a wide range of retainer types and issues, including:

• Hawley Retainers (acrylic base with metal wires)
  Repairs may include soldering broken wires, adjusting fit, or replacing worn acrylic.
• Essix Retainers (clear, tray-style)
  We repair or replace cracked or warped trays, similar to clear aligner fabrication.
• Fixed/Bonded Retainers (glued to the back of the teeth)
  Repairs may include rebonding loose wires, replacing broken segments, or cleaning and adjusting the appliance.

If your retainer is beyond repair, we can take new impressions using digital scanning to fabricate a precise replacement—without the mess of traditional impressions.

Signs Your Retainer Needs Repair

You should contact our office if you notice:

• Cracks, chips, or visible damage to the retainer
• Difficulty inserting or removing the retainer
• A loose or tight fit that has changed over time
• Sharp edges that irritate your tongue or gums
• A retainer that no longer stays in place

If you’re unsure whether your appliance can be fixed or needs replacement, our team will evaluate it and offer the best solution.

At Dentistry for Families, we provide ongoing orthodontic support long after active treatment ends. In addition to retainer repairs, we offer:

• Routine exams and cleanings to monitor your alignment and oral health
• Mouthguards for patients who grind their teeth or play sports
• Oral sedation for nervous patients needing retainer adjustments or replacements
• Full evaluations for adults and teens experiencing orthodontic relapse

If you've completed treatment with us or another provider, we’re happy to help you preserve your results with retainer care and preventive dentistry.

Retainer Repair for Kids, Teens & Adults

We serve patients of all ages throughout North Las Vegas, Sunrise Manor, Aliante, and surrounding communities. Whether it’s your child’s first orthodontic retainer or you're an adult returning after previous treatment, we offer flexible scheduling and quick turnaround on most repairs.

For growing kids, retainers may need periodic adjustments as the mouth changes. We keep this in mind when evaluating long-term fit and can coordinate with your child’s general dental care for a seamless experience.

Can I fix a broken retainer at home?

No. DIY repairs often make the damage worse or render the retainer unusable. Bring it to us, and we’ll assess the best way to repair or replace it safely and accurately.

How long does retainer repair take?

Many minor repairs can be completed in a single visit. If a replacement is needed, we’ll take digital scans and have a new retainer fabricated, often within a few days.

What should I do if my fixed retainer breaks?

If a bonded wire comes loose or breaks, avoid wiggling it or pulling on it. Contact us right away so we can rebond or replace the appliance before your teeth begin to shift.

How much does retainer repair cost?

Costs vary depending on the type of repair or replacement needed. We provide clear estimates before any work begins and accept most dental insurance plans with orthodontic coverage.

Will I need a new retainer if I haven’t worn it in a while?

Possibly. If your teeth have shifted, we may need to create a new retainer—or, in some cases, recommend limited orthodontic treatment with braces or clear aligners to restore your results.

Schedule Your Retainer Repair in North Las Vegas

Don’t let a broken or poorly fitting retainer undo your hard work. At Dentistry for Families, we make it simple to restore your appliance and keep your smile on track. Whether you need a minor fix or a full replacement, our team is here to help—quickly, comfortably, and locally.

Call us at (702) 633-4333 or request your appointment online to schedule your retainer repair at our North Las Vegas office.