Retainer Repair in Winston-Salem, NC

Your retainer plays a critical role in keeping your smile aligned after braces or clear aligner treatment — but what happens when it breaks, no longer fits, or gets lost? At Trenton B. Bottoms, DDS, we offer fast, high-quality retainer repair in Winston Salem to get you back on track without unnecessary delays or discomfort.

We understand that a damaged or missing retainer can cause frustration — and even risk your orthodontic results. That’s why we offer prompt evaluations and on-site solutions when possible, along with custom replacement options if repair isn’t feasible.

When to Schedule Retainer Repair

Retainers are durable, but they’re not indestructible. If you notice any of the following, it’s time to give us a call:

• Cracks, chips, or breakage in acrylic or wires
  
• Warping or distortion (especially with heat exposure)
  
• Tightness or looseness that wasn’t there before
  
• Difficulty keeping the retainer in place
  
• Retainer no longer fits after missing wear time
  
• A lost or misplaced retainer
  

Even minor damage can compromise retention — and if left unaddressed, your teeth may begin to shift. If you’ve searched for a dentist near me who can address retainer issues quickly and precisely, we’re here to help.

Retainer Types We Repair

We service and evaluate most major types of retainers, including:

• Hawley Retainers: The classic wire-and-acrylic style — repairable in many cases with adjustment or acrylic rebasing.
  
• Essix (Clear) Retainers: Thin, transparent retainers similar to clear aligners. Often replaced if cracked or warped.
  
• Fixed (Bonded) Retainers: A permanent wire bonded behind your teeth. We repair or rebond these when they come loose or detach.
  

Dr. Bottoms will assess your existing retainer and let you know if repair is possible — or if a replacement is the smarter long-term solution.

What to Expect at Your Appointment

1. Assessment: We examine the retainer and your current bite to evaluate damage and any signs of tooth movement.
   
2. Repair (if possible): For minor issues like wire adjustment or small cracks, we may be able to repair the retainer on-site.
   
3. Impressions (if needed): If replacement is necessary, we’ll take a digital scan or traditional impression to fabricate a new custom retainer.
   
4. Fit & Follow-Up: Once ready, we’ll ensure your repaired or new retainer fits comfortably and securely — with wear instructions tailored to your needs.
   

We often coordinate retainer repair as part of ongoing preventive care or clear aligner treatment, ensuring long-term success and stability.

Why Retainer Repair Matters

Wearing your retainer as prescribed after orthodontics is critical to maintaining alignment. If your retainer is damaged, avoid DIY fixes — especially glues or heating — which can cause more harm.

Timely repair or replacement:

• Prevents tooth shifting and relapse
  
• Protects the investment you made in braces or aligners
  
• Reduces the risk of needing future orthodontic retreatment
  
• Ensures a comfortable, safe fit with long-term durability
  

As a conservative, prevention-minded provider, Dr. Bottoms will always recommend the most effective solution to protect your smile with as little disruption or cost as possible.