How Much Does a Retainer Cost?

After orthodontic treatments like braces or aligners, teeth can shift back into their original positions. To prevent this, your orthodontist will usually provide you with a retainer to keep your teeth in alignment.

How much does a retainer cost? Let’s explore what influences a retainer’s price and discuss your options.

What Factors Affect How Much a Retainer Costs?

Factors that influence how much a retainer costs include:

• Retainer type
• Maintenance and repairs
• Insurance coverage

Additionally, complex treatment requirements or higher-quality materials that increase durability, comfort, or aesthetic appearance often cost more.

How Much Is a New Retainer?

The average price range for a new retainer is about $150 to $550 per arch. The arch refers to the curve of either your top or bottom teeth, and your customized treatment dictates the need for one or the other or both. Some brands, such as Vivera, come in sets and can cost as much as $1,200.

What Are the Different Types of Retainers?

There are two types of retainers: permanent and removable. Your orthodontist might prescribe one type or a combination, like a permanent retainer for your bottom arch and a removable one for the top.

Permanent Retainers

Permanent retainers, also known as fixed or bonded retainers, consist of a thin metal wire attached to the back (lingual side) of the teeth, usually on the bottom arch. They can make oral hygiene more difficult, and only your orthodontist or dentist can remove them. However, they’re very useful when your teeth are exceptionally likely to shift back to their original positions or for younger children who are apt to ignore instructions. How much a new permanent retainer costs is about $225 to $550 per arch.

Removable Retainers

Hawley retainers are thin metal wire and plastic or acrylic devices fitted to your arch. They can be adjusted and last for years if you use and maintain them correctly. On the downside, Hawley retainers can affect your speech and are more noticeable than other types. One Hawley retainer can cost between $150 and $340 on average.

Instead, you might choose clear plastic or polyurethane molded retainers, which are thinner, more comfortable, and “invisible.” They are easy to remove but easy to lose, and they often need to be replaced every year. Most of the common brands cost about $100 to $300 per arch, and some premium brands charge up to $400 for one retainer.

Can I Buy a New Retainer Online?

Yes, you can buy a new or replacement retainer online. You’ll usually spend less upfront, but there are important considerations. Online providers generally send you an at-home mold kit for dental impressions, and self-made impressions can result in a retainer that doesn’t fit properly.

Additionally, your teeth may shift during treatment, and your retainer might need adjusting. An in-office visit can address this concern faster and more accurately. Ultimately, an online provider might be a good option to save money, but you should always consult your orthodontist first.

How Much Are Retainer Replacements?

In general, replacement retainers cost between $150 and $550 per arch — about the same as new ones. However, some providers might offer discounts for replacements, especially if they don’t have to take new impressions.

Do Orthodontists Keep Retainer Molds?

It makes sense for your orthodontist to keep your retainer molds, but the practice varies from provider to provider. Physical molds occupy significant space, and high-volume orthodontic offices may not have room to keep them. Still, some providers keep molds for a certain period, especially if they expect you to need replacements.

Many orthodontists are now using scanned digital impressions. They are easier to store and retrieve and eliminate the need for traditional molds.

Can a Retainer Be Repaired?

It is possible to repair a retainer depending on the type of retainer and the damage:

• Removable Clear Plastic Retainers: Transparent plastic retainers are easy to crack, warp, or break. Dental adhesives might temporarily fix minor cracks, but eventually, you will need to replace the retainer.
• Removable Hawley Retainers: Wire and acrylic Hawley retainers are more durable. Orthodontists can usually repair bent or detached wires and cracks in the acrylic.
• Permanent Wire Retainers: If the wire bonded to the back of your teeth breaks or detaches, they might shift. Only a dental professional can reattach the wire.

Whenever you damage any kind of retainer, consult with your orthodontist for the solution; don’t throw it away or try to fix it yourself.

How Do You Avoid Retainer Replacement Costs?

You can easily avoid how much retainer replacements cost by following these recommendations:

• Regular Cleaning: Clean your retainer daily in warm (not hot) water using a soft-bristled toothbrush and mild, non-abrasive toothpaste.
• Proper Storage: When you’re not wearing it, store your retainer in its protective case to prevent damage and exposure to bacteria.
• Handle with Care: Always handle your retainer gently. Avoid bending the wires or dropping the retainer.
• Remove During Meals: Store your removable retainer in its case while eating to prevent staining or damage.

Finally, make sure you go to your orthodontic follow-up appointments to monitor the condition of your retainer and promptly address any issues to prevent further damage.

Does Insurance Cover Retainers?

Insurance coverage for retainers varies widely by company and policy. Many basic plans do not cover any portion of orthodontic treatment, and other companies consider it a supplemental benefit rather than a standard feature.

If your insurance provider does offer orthodontic coverage, it generally includes your first retainer as part of your overall treatment plan. Some plans pay for replacements due to loss or damage but might not for other circumstances, such as normal wear and tear or poor fit.

Some companies also include limitations in their fine print, such as waiting periods, age restrictions, or lifetime maximums. It’s good practice to contact your insurance agent before you start orthodontic treatment so that you understand your coverage and potential out-of-pocket expenses.

How Much Does a Retainer Cost at Peterson Family Ortho?

Understanding what determines how much a retainer costs should help you get an idea of what you’ll be spending when the time comes. We also offer financing options if your insurance doesn’t cover orthodontic treatments. Contact us today to schedule a complimentary consultation at Peterson Family Ortho.