Lost & chewed retainers
Lost, Chewed, or Missing Pieces: Repair or Replace?
A retainer that is completely lost has to be replaced. One that is chewed, cracked, or missing a piece may still be repairable. Here is how to tell.
Quick decision guide
| Situation | Usually |
|---|---|
| Retainer completely lost | Replace — contact the provider who made it |
| Hawley/acrylic chewed on the edges | Often repairable — send a photo |
| Small piece of acrylic broken off (you have it) | Often repairable |
| Wire bent or snapped from chewing | Often repairable — see broken wire repair |
| Chewed into several pieces, parts missing | Usually replace |
| Clear plastic retainer or aligner chewed or split | Not repaired by Smile Extension — we do not repair clear aligners or clear plastic retainers; contact your provider for a replacement (details) |
If it is lost
- Retrace the usual suspects: lunch trays, napkins, pockets, car, gym bag, and the dog's favorite spots.
- Contact your dentist or orthodontist promptly — teeth can start shifting when a retainer isn't worn, and they can advise how soon to replace it.
- When you get the new one, get a bright hard case and make "case it every time" the rule.
If it is chewed or broken
Pets — especially dogs — are a common cause of retainer damage. If there is still a retainer to work with, a repair is often faster and cheaper than starting over. Send photos of the top, the front, and the damaged area, and include any loose pieces in the picture.
Repair packages include prepaid UPS both ways from $99.35. See retainer repair prices.
Send a clear photo for a repair check: text 657-566-1558 or email smilextechnologies@gmail.com. Include the front, back, and a close-up of the damage, plus the retainer type and what happened. Or use the quote form.
Smile Extension provides mail-order appliance repair, not diagnosis or dental care. If something is painful, injured, or your bite or fit has changed, contact your dentist or orthodontist first.
Quick answers
Can you repair a retainer my dog chewed?
Often, if it is a Hawley or acrylic retainer and enough of it is left. Send photos so we can check before you pay or ship.
Can you make a replacement if I lost my retainer?
We repair existing retainers; a lost retainer needs a replacement from your dentist or orthodontist, who can check your fit.
Related repair guides
Broken retainer?
Send a photo — we confirm the repair before you pay or ship.