If you lost or broke your retainers, you should get the fixed or get new ones made as soon as possible. Teeth are dynamic and respond to the forces of your jaws. If you don’t wear your retainers as prescribed, your teeth will begin to shift. Don’t be embarrassed if you lost your retainers — it’s very common!
To replace your retainers, call your orthodontist or dentist. They should have your impressions or 3-D models on file. In some cases, you might not need to go in for an appointment to get new retainers ordered and made. However, if it has been a while since you saw your orthodontist, an in-person appointment and a new set of impressions might be necessary. New retainers typically cost between $100-$275.
While you are waiting for your new retainers to come in, you can buy an over-the-counter product called Stay Tray to temporarily keep your teeth in their proper positions. You can find it in some drug stores, or buy it online at DentaKit.com.
Illustration from the book I Lost My Retainer by Harris Labs.