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Keep Your Smile on Track with Fast, Reliable Retainer Repair
Retainer Repair in Palo Alto, CA
Your orthodontic treatment doesn't end when the braces or aligners come off—retainers are essential to keeping your newly straightened smile in place. But over time, retainers can break, warp, or simply stop fitting the way they should. That’s where we come in.
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At Denise Henderson DDS, we offer retainer repair and replacement services to help patients in Palo Alto, Menlo Park, Mountain View, Los Altos, and Stanford maintain the beautiful results they worked so hard to achieve.
Why Retainers Matter
Whether you used Invisalign, braces, or another form of orthodontic treatment, retainers are what help preserve your smile’s alignment. They prevent teeth from shifting back to their original positions and are typically worn full-time at first, then gradually reduced to nighttime wear.
If your retainer is broken, ill-fitting, or missing, it’s important to act quickly. Delays in repair or replacement can lead to relapse and undo the progress you’ve made.
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Common Retainer Issues We Repair
Our office can help address:
- Cracked or broken retainers
- Loose wires or plastic components
- Distortion from heat or improper storage
- Discomfort or poor fit
- Lost or missing retainers
We work with both fixed (permanent) and removable (Hawley and clear plastic) retainers and will assess whether repair is possible or if replacement is the better option for your case.
Signs Your Retainer May Need Repair or Replacement
- You see visible cracks or warping
- It no longer fits snugly or comfortably
- One side feels loose or uneven
- You experience speech issues or gum irritation
- You’ve stopped wearing it due to discomfort
If you're unsure whether your retainer is still working properly, bring it in for an evaluation. Even small changes in fit can have a big impact over time.
What to Expect During Your Visit
When you visit us for retainer repair, here’s what we’ll do:
- Assessment – Dr. Henderson will examine your retainer and your bite to determine the extent of damage and whether repair or replacement is recommended.
- Digital Scans – If a new retainer is needed, we’ll take quick, accurate scans with our iTero® digital impression system—no messy putty required.
- In-Office or Lab Repair – Some minor repairs can be made in our office the same day. More significant damage may require lab fabrication of a new retainer.
- Fitting and Instructions – We’ll ensure your repaired or new retainer fits properly and provide care tips to extend its life.
Caring for Your Retainer
To avoid future issues, follow these care tips:
- Always store your retainer in its case when not in use
- Keep it away from pets—they love to chew them
- Clean daily with a toothbrush and cool water (avoid hot water)
- Never wrap it in a napkin where it could be accidentally thrown away
- Bring it with you to regular dental visits for inspection
A well-maintained retainer can last several years with proper care.
Why Choose Denise Henderson DDS for Retainer Repair?
Dr. Denise Henderson is a trusted provider of family, cosmetic, and orthodontic dental care in the Palo Alto area. Her experience with Invisalign and orthodontic retention ensures you’ll receive the right solution based on your unique smile and lifestyle.
Patients choose our practice for:
- Same-day evaluations and quick turnaround options
- Advanced digital scanning technology
- Personalized care that supports long-term alignment and comfort
- A welcoming environment where every smile is treated with attention and expertise
Don’t Let a Broken Retainer Undo Your Progress
Whether your retainer is cracked, lost, or just not fitting quite right, don’t wait. Getting the issue fixed now can prevent costly orthodontic retreatment later.
Call (650) 327-4755 or schedule your visit online to get started with retainer repair at Denise Henderson DDS in Palo Alto.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does retainer repair take?
Minor repairs may be done the same day. If a new retainer is needed, we can typically have it ready within a few days, depending on lab turnaround.
Can you fix a retainer that’s been stepped on or chewed?
In many cases, no—but we can create a new one using digital impressions, often without needing to take physical molds.
What if I lost my retainer completely?
We’ll evaluate your current tooth alignment and create a replacement to help prevent your teeth from shifting.
Is retainer repair covered by insurance?
Some plans cover part of the cost. We’ll review your benefits and give you a clear estimate before proceeding.
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Protect Your Smile for the Long Term
You’ve worked hard for your smile—keep it that way. Whether you need a quick fix or a full replacement, we’re here to help you stay aligned and confident.