Can I get a replacement retainer, even if I had my teeth straightened somewhere else?

Yes — we can create replacement retainers using digital scans of your teeth. However, you should contact us quickly as even a few days without retention can allow tooth movement, especially in the first year after completing your treatment. Remember, the cost of replacement is much less than the cost of repeating full orthodontic treatment.

My fixed retainer has broken — is this an emergency?

If your fixed retainer breaks, we will always aim to see you as quickly as possible for repair. Whilst it is not a medical emergency, a broken fixed retainer could mean your teeth start to shift. If the wire is poking your tongue and causing discomfort, this is more urgent. In the meantime, you can cover the wire using orthodontic wax available at most pharmacies.

My retainer doesn’t fit anymore. What should I do?

If your retainer no longer fits, it is essential that you do not try and force it in. This could cause damage to your teeth and lead to significant discomfort. Contact us immediately for an assessment, and we can discuss your options.

How much do retainers cost to replace?

Replacement retainer costs vary depending on the type. Removable retainers cost £95 per arch, or you can purchase 3 sets of Invisalign Vivera Retainers for £525. Fixed retainers are priced at £150 per arch. We provide transparent pricing during your consultation.

Retainers

Protect your investment and maintain your perfect smile with professional retainer care.

Why Retainers Are Essential

Once you have achieved your beautiful, straight smile you want to keep it that way. However, teeth will always want to naturally shift back to their original position. Without retention, the time, effort and investment could become undone.

Retainers are not optional — they're essential for maintaining results for life. We provide retainer fitting, replacements and ongoing care to ensure your smile stays perfect.

Two Types of Retainers

We offer both removable and fixed retainers to suit your lifestyle and clinical needs.

Removable Retainers

Clear plastic retainers that you wear overnight, and can remove for eating and cleaning.

✓
Easy to Clean
Remove them to brush and floss normally, maintaining excellent oral hygiene.
✓
Aesthetically Invisible
Modern clear retainers are virtually invisible when worn.
✓
Full Arch Coverage
Covers all the teeth, providing comprehensive retention across your entire smile.
✓
Easy Replacement
If damaged or lost, replacement is straightforward with new scans.

Fixed Retainers

A thin wire bonded to the back of your front teeth, providing 24/7 retention.

✓
Set and Forget
Works continuously without having to remember to wear it.
✓
Zero Compliance
No risk of forgetting to wear it or losing it.
✓
Maximum Protection
24/7 retention where it’s needed the most.
✓
Prevent Relapse
Particularly effective for patients who had severe crowding or rotations.

When to Replace Your Retainers

Removable Retainers

Recommended: Every 1 to 2 years

Clear plastic retainers naturally wear down, become cloudy, develop cracks and lose their fit over time.

Signs you need a new retainer:

Visible cracks, chips, or holes
Retainer feels loose or doesn’t fit snugly anymore
Cloudy, discoloured or stained appearance that won’t clean
Warped shape from heat exposure
You’ve started to notice tooth movement or shifting

Fixed Retainers

Recommended: Every 5 to 10 years

Fixed retainers can last many years, but they require monitoring and occasional repair or replacement.

Signs you need repair/replacement:

Wire has broken or detached from one or more teeth
You can feel the wire moving with your tongue
Visible gaps between the wire and the back of your tooth
Bonding material has come loose or fallen off
Tartar build-up around the wire is becoming difficult to clean

Caring for Your Retainers

Removable Retainers

Daily Cleaning
Rinse with cool water after each use. Brush gently with a soft toothbrush and clear liquid soap. Do not use toothpaste, as this can scratch the plastic.
Deep Cleaning
Soak weekly in retainer cleaning solution to remove the buildup of bacteria. Ultrasonic pods are also extremely effective.
Storage
Always store in a protective case when you are not wearing your retainers. Never wrap them in tissue or leave them exposed.
Avoid
Hot water (warps the plastic), toothpaste and leaving them in direct sunlight.

Fixed Retainers

Flossing is Critical
Use a floss threader or orthodontic floss to clean under the wire daily.
Interdental Brushes
Small brushes can help clean around the wire and in between the teeth more effectively than regular floss.
Regular Check-ups
See your dentist every 6 months for professional cleaning around the wire to prevent plaque buildup.

Frequently Asked Questions

Need a Retainer?

Whether you need a new retainer, a replacement, or a repair — we're here to help.

Book an Appointment