Do I need to replace my broken Bonded Lower Retainer?

Question

I have a bonded lower retainer (small diameter cable cemented to the back of my bottom teeth from canine to canine) and one of the bonds on one of the canine teeth came loose several months ago. Gradually, the cable bent back and forth, became weakened, and snapped off. So, the retainer is still there except for one canine tooth. I got braces young and I'm now 27. My bottom teeth were not very straight when i got braces. They had to remove two permanent teeth from the bottom teeth in order to create space. My wisdom teeth have been removed. I feel like there is plenty of space and that they might not move anymore but wanted to get some other opinions. Its going to cost me 500 to get an orthodontist to replace it if that is what i decide. What are your thoughts?

Answer 1

If your retainer came loose several months ago and your teeth have not shifted much, you should be ok without one.  I would have your dentist or orthodontist remove whatever is left of the retainer and adhesive and just watch your teeth closely.  If you notice them moving at all, then call the orthodontist.