What to Do If You Forgot Your Retainer on Vacation

What to Do If You Forgot Your Retainer on Vacation

It’s hard enough remembering to pack all of your belongings when going on vacation, so it’s not surprising that sometimes people forget their retainers. If you find yourself in this situation, don’t worry—there are several options available to get you the retainer you need. Here are some tips on what to do if you forgot your retainer on vacation.

Contact the Vacation Spot to See if it Was Found

The first thing you should do when you realize your retainer is missing is contact the vacation spot to see if anyone has found it. Depending on where you were, this could be a hotel, an Airbnb, or a campground. Make sure to call and ask about any lost items that may have been turned in. It’s also a good idea to check the lost and found at the airport if you flew to your destination.

When you contact the vacation spot, make sure to provide as much detail as possible about your retainer. This includes the color, size, brand, and any other distinguishing features. The more specific you can be, the better. It will help them in their search and make it easier to identify if your retainer is found.

If your retainer is found, they should be able to mail it to you. Be sure to ask how long it will take and what kind of shipping service they use. Some places may even offer to overnight it to you.

Make a DIY Retainer with Dental Wax

If your retainer isn’t found, you may want to consider making a DIY retainer using dental wax. This is a temporary solution, but it can help hold your teeth in place until you can get a new retainer. To make a DIY retainer, you will need dental wax, scissors, and a plastic bag.

To start, cut the dental wax into small pieces and shape them into a retainer-like shape. Then, put the pieces in the plastic bag and heat them up in the microwave for 30 seconds. Once the wax is soft, take it out of the bag and shape it around your teeth. Allow it to cool before taking it out of your mouth. This will help it keep its shape.

There are both pros and cons to using a DIY retainer. The biggest advantage is that it’s inexpensive and easy to make. However, it won’t last as long as a professional retainer and it may not fit your teeth as well.

Visit a Local Orthodontist for a New Retainer

Another option is to visit a local orthodontist and get a new retainer. Orthodontists specialize in straightening teeth, so they can make a retainer that fits your teeth perfectly. To find an orthodontist near you, start by asking friends and family for recommendations. You can also look online for reviews and compare prices. Once you have found an orthodontist, make an appointment to get fitted for a new retainer.

When you go to the orthodontist, they will take impressions of your teeth and create a model of your mouth. From there, they will design a retainer specifically for your teeth. They may offer different types of retainers, such as hard acrylic, flexible plastic, or metal wire. Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to discuss your options with the orthodontist.

The cost of getting a new retainer from an orthodontist can vary depending on the type of retainer and the complexity of the work. Generally, the cost can range from $200 to $400.

Research Mail-Order Retainers

If you don’t want to visit an orthodontist, you can always order a retainer online. There are many companies that offer mail-order retainers, so you can easily find one that meets your needs. When ordering online, make sure to read the reviews to make sure the company is reputable.

Mail-order retainers are usually cheaper than visiting an orthodontist, but they may not fit as well. It can also take a few days or weeks to receive your retainer, so it’s important to factor this into your timeline. Additionally, some companies may charge extra for expedited shipping.

Use a Temporary Dental Guard

If you need something right away, a temporary dental guard may be a good option. These are usually available at drugstores and come in one-size-fits-all packages. They are made of soft plastic and fit over your teeth like a retainer. They are designed to protect your teeth from grinding and clenching while you sleep.

Temporary dental guards are a good option if you just need something for a few days or weeks. They are relatively inexpensive, usually costing around $20. However, they may not fit your teeth as well as a custom retainer and they won’t last as long.

Wear Braces for a Short Time

In some cases, you may need to wear braces for a short period of time if your teeth have shifted significantly since you last had a retainer. This is especially true if you haven’t worn a retainer for a long time or if you have had major dental work done. In these cases, your dentist or orthodontist may suggest wearing braces for a few months to get your teeth back in alignment.

Getting braces is a process, so it’s important to plan ahead. You will need to make several visits to the orthodontist for fittings, adjustments, and check-ups. The cost of braces can vary depending on the complexity of the work, but generally it can range from $3,000 to $7,000.

Invest in a Retainer Case with Tracking Device

Finally, if you travel often or just want to be extra cautious, you may want to invest in a retainer case with a tracking device. These cases are designed to keep your retainer safe and secure, and they come with a tracking device that allows you to locate it if it gets lost. This is a great option if you tend to misplace your retainer often.

Retainer cases with tracking devices come in a variety of styles and sizes. Some even come with alarms that alert you if the case is moved. Prices can range from $20 to $50, depending on the features.

No matter which option you choose, it’s important to take good care of your retainer. Clean it regularly, store it in a safe place, and bring it with you when you travel. With these tips, you can make sure your retainer stays with you and your smile stays healthy.

Conclusion

Forgetting your retainer on vacation can be stressful, but there are several options available. You can contact the vacation spot to see if it was found, make a DIY retainer with dental wax, visit a local orthodontist for a new retainer, research mail-order retainers, use a temporary dental guard, wear braces for a short time, or invest in a retainer case with tracking device. No matter which option you choose, make sure to take good care of your retainer to ensure your teeth stay healthy.