Can I get a retainer without going to the dentist?

ClearRetain. This mail-in system allows you to skip the dentist and take your own teeth impressions at home, which you then mail to the company in a pre-paid box for a custom retainer that arrives in days.

Can you buy your own retainer?

It is possible to order custom retainers online. “I’d say people choose this because it’s cheaper since you’re not going to a licensed professional to get your stuff,” Garrison-Jeter says. There are several teeth straightening companies that sell direct-to-consumer dental retainers on their websites.

Can you buy over the counter retainers?

These guards can either be purchased over-the-counter or made custom by your dental professional, as the ASA explains. They are made of either soft or hard plastic and are worn over the top or bottom teeth. Another difference between a retainer and a night guard is how and when they are worn.

What can I use if I don’t have retainers?

If you have lost your retainer, the best option is to schedule an appointment to get a replacement as soon as possible. You don’t have to panic – your teeth may shift, but the process is slow. The shifting that occurs in a short time shouldn’t be significant enough to require braces again.

How much do teeth shift without a retainer?

Without a retainer, your teeth will begin to shift back to where they were before. “As we age, our teeth do naturally shift some on their own,” says Dr. Santiago Surillo. “But, wearing your retainer can help ensure that any shifting that does occur is minimal and you can keep the straight smile you have after braces.”

Can you get a retainer anywhere?

Once the orthodontist has a proper model of your teeth, they can produce a replacement retainer. This may be done in-house or by an outside lab. In-house tends to be a quicker turnaround time, while an outside lab just means you’ll have to wait a few extra days to get your replacement retainers in.

How much is a new clear retainer?

Replacement clear retainers, like an Invisalign or an Essix retainer, cost between $400-$800. The first retainer you get is usually included in the cost of your total orthodontic treatment. Permanent retainers cost between $150-$500 to place or replace.

Can you use a mouthguard as a retainer?

A hard night guard will not work as well as retainers do to prevent the teeth from shifting, but it is certainly better than nothing. We recommend getting both a hard night guard and retainers if you are serious about preserving your smile. That way you can alternate between your night guard and your retainers.

How much does it cost to replace a dental retainer?

If not included, replacement retainers can cost $70-$250 for one or $140-$500 or more for a set. Most dental insurance does not cover replacement retainers. Removable Essix retainers made of vacuum-formed clear plastic typically cost $100-$250 for one or $200-$500 for a set.

What is the best retainer for teeth?

A retainer is a custom-made, removable or fixed appliance that helps teeth maintain their new position after braces have been removed. Retainers can also be used to treat minor orthodontic problems. The use of a retainer is a very important part of post-braces care.

What is a permanent retainer?

Permanent retainers are sometimes options for patients who just completed significant orthodontic work, and need extra security while the teeth settle into their new locations. As the name implies, these retainers stay on your teeth at all times. The orthodontist will glue a wire to the back of them.

What are braces retainer?

Orthodontists use retainers to help keep your teeth stay in their new position after braces are removed. A standard retainer that is used often is a hawley retainer. This retainer is made of acrylic and wire. It is very durable and can last a long time.