Lost Your Retainer? Here’s What to Do Next

March 25, 2025

Lost Your Retainer? Here’s What to Do Next

It happens to the best of us – one minute, your retainer is securely in its case, and the next minute, it’s gone! Whether it slipped out of your bag, got misplaced during a meal, or fell out of its case, losing a retainer can be frustrating. However, don't panic. There are steps you can take to prevent any serious damage to your teeth and restore your smile. Here’s what you should do if you’ve lost your retainer:

1. Stay Calm and Assess the Situation

First and foremost, take a deep breath. It’s not the end of the world! Losing a retainer doesn’t mean your teeth will immediately start shifting, but it’s important to act quickly to prevent any potential changes. Assess how long it's been since you last wore your retainer and consider how much time you have before noticeable shifting begins. The longer you go without wearing it, the higher the risk of your teeth starting to move.

2. Contact Your Orthodontist

The next step is to reach out to your orthodontist or dentist. They are the best resource for what to do in this situation. They may advise you to continue without a retainer for a short period, or they might recommend an immediate replacement, depending on how long it’s been since your last check-up and the stage of your orthodontic treatment. Most orthodontists keep a record of your treatment, so they can quickly help you get a new retainer made.

3. Try Using a Temporary Solution

While waiting for a replacement, there are some temporary solutions you can try. If you still have a backup retainer or if you are between stages of orthodontic treatment, you may be able to wear your old retainer. However, if you don't have a spare, avoid trying to wear a retainer that doesn’t fit properly, as it could cause discomfort or even harm.

In some cases, your orthodontist may suggest using a temporary clear aligner (if available) until a new retainer is ready. These temporary solutions are not ideal long-term, but they can help maintain your smile until you receive a replacement.

4. Prevent Future Losses: Be Proactive About Care

Once you've dealt with the immediate situation, it’s time to think about how to avoid losing your retainer in the future. Here are a few helpful tips:

Always Store It in Its Case: Make it a habit to store your retainer in its case when you're not wearing it. A small, portable case keeps it protected and easily accessible.
Keep It in a Designated Spot: Develop a routine of always placing your retainer in the same spot each day, whether it’s a specific pocket in your bag or a drawer in your home. This reduces the chance of misplacing it.
Avoid Eating or Drinking with It: Eating or drinking with your retainer can cause it to get stuck in food or cause wear and tear, which increases the likelihood of it getting lost or damaged.
Avoid Leaving It Out: If you need to remove your retainer temporarily, never leave it on the table or counter without a case. It could easily get misplaced in these situations.

5. Get a Replacement Retainer

If your retainer is permanently lost or damaged beyond repair, it's time to get a replacement. Depending on your orthodontic treatment plan, your orthodontist can create a new retainer for you. Be sure to follow up as soon as possible to avoid any shifting. In some cases, if significant time has passed since the last retainer, you may need to undergo a brief evaluation to ensure that no serious shifting has occurred.

6. Consider Getting a Spare Retainer

For peace of mind, many patients opt to get a spare retainer. This can be extremely helpful in case of future accidents or losses. Having a backup on hand ensures that you’ll always have a solution without delay. You can discuss this option with your orthodontist during your next visit.

Losing your retainer can be stressful, but it’s not the end of the world. By acting quickly, contacting your orthodontist, and following their advice, you can minimize any impact on your treatment. Take steps to keep your retainer safe in the future, and don’t hesitate to get a replacement if necessary.

For more information about retainers, or to purchase a new one, visit New Smile Life Retainers.

Whether you’re looking to replace a lost retainer or ensure your smile stays perfect, taking quick action will help you maintain your orthodontic results and keep your teeth in place.