Replacement Retainers in Seoul: What to Do If Yours Is Lost or Broken
If you lose or break a retainer in Seoul, contact a dentist promptly, because teeth can shift without it. Lucid Dental Clinic in Gangnam makes replacement retainers from ₩300,000 each after an exam. If teeth have already moved, the dentist will discuss whether to hold them as they are or realign them first.
Key facts
- Replacement retainers at Lucid Dental Clinic have a reference fee of ₩300,000 each (≈US$215 at ₩1,400/US$).
- The British Orthodontic Society advises contacting your orthodontist promptly if a retainer is lost or broken.
- A new retainer holds teeth where they are now; it cannot move them back.
- Retainer types include clear removable, wire-and-acrylic removable, and fixed bonded wires.
- Lucid Dental is in front of Exit 3, Eonju Station (Line 9), open until 20:30 Tue–Thu.
- Retainers are generally not covered by Korea's NHIS.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Park Hyun-min, Prosthodontist, Chief Dentist at Lucid Dental Clinic. Last reviewed 27 September 2026. This page is general information, not a diagnosis; individual results vary, and a consultation and exam are required.
I lost or broke my retainer in Seoul. What should I do first?
Contact a dentist as soon as you can rather than waiting. The British Orthodontic Society advises getting in touch with your orthodontist straight away if a retainer is lost or broken, because teeth may start to shift without it.
- Keep any broken pieces in a clean case; they can help show how it was made.
- Check whether a fixed wire is loose by looking in a mirror and feeling gently with your tongue. Do not pull on it.
- If a wire is poking, cover it with orthodontic wax or sugar-free gum and avoid biting on it.
- Find old records if you can: a scan file or model from your orthodontist at home can be useful.
- Message Lucid Dental on WhatsApp(+82-10-8354-2975) with a photo and a short description.
- Book an exam so the dentist can check whether teeth have moved before making a new retainer.
How much does a replacement retainer cost in Seoul?
At Lucid Dental Clinic in Gangnam, retainers have a reference fee of ₩300,000 each (about US$215 at roughly ₩1,400 per US$ — check today's rate). If your teeth have shifted and need correcting first, other fees apply.
| Situation | What is usually needed | Reference fee (KRW, from) |
|---|---|---|
| Retainer lost, teeth still in place | Exam, scan or impression, new retainer | ₩300,000 per retainer |
| Upper and lower both lost | Two new retainers | ₩600,000 |
| Teeth have shifted slightly | Possible limited realignment, then retainer | Anterior alignment ₩1,290,000 per arch + retainer |
| Teeth have shifted significantly | Orthodontic reassessment | Quoted after exam |
| Grinding at night as well | Night guard may be discussed separately | Night guard ₩600,000 |
These are reference "from" prices; the final fee is confirmed after the exam. Retainers are generally not covered by Korea's NHIS, so plan to pay directly.
What types of retainers are there?
There are two broad families: removable retainers you take out, and fixed retainers bonded behind the teeth. Many people wear a combination.
| Type | What it is | Things to know |
|---|---|---|
| Clear removable | Thin plastic tray shaped to your teeth | Discreet; can crack or warp with heat or wear |
| Wire-and-acrylic removable | Acrylic plate with a wire across the front teeth | Adjustable; more visible |
| Fixed (bonded) | Thin wire glued behind the front teeth | Works all the time; needs careful cleaning and can debond |
The dentist will recommend a type based on your teeth, your history and how you wore your previous retainer. If you had a fixed wire before and it came loose, a repair may be possible instead of a full replacement.
How long do I need to wear a retainer?
For most people, some retainer wear is lifelong. The British Orthodontic Society's patient leaflet says the only way to ensure teeth cannot move is to wear retainers part-time for life, often starting nightly for about 12 months and then reducing to a lower long-term frequency as advised.
The NHS also notes that a retainer is needed after braces are removed to stop teeth moving back, and that your orthodontist will tell you how long to wear it. Your own schedule should come from your treating dentist.
What if my teeth have already moved?
A new retainer can only hold teeth where they are now; it cannot move them back. If your teeth have shifted, the dentist will discuss whether you are happy with the current position or want them realigned first.
- Small change you can accept: a new retainer holds the current position.
- Small change you want corrected: anterior teeth alignment may be enough, followed by a new retainer.
- Larger change: a fuller orthodontic plan, such as Clippy-C ceramic braces or Invisalign.
How do I care for a retainer in Korea's climate and daily life?
Most retainer damage comes from heat, careless storage or cleaning with the wrong products. A few habits help:
- Clean removable retainers gently with a toothbrush and cool water. The BOS advises against toothpaste on retainers because it can damage them.
- Never leave a clear retainer in hot water, on a sunny car dashboard or near a heater in winter.
- Always use a case. Many retainers are lost wrapped in a napkin at restaurants.
- Take it out before eating and brush before putting it back in.
- Bring your retainer to checkups so it can be inspected.
Is Lucid Dental convenient for expats who need a retainer?
Lucid Dental Clinic is directly in front of Exit 3 of Eonju Station on Subway Line 9, between Sinnonhyeon and Seonjeongneung. Tuesday to Thursday hours run until 20:30 and Saturdays until 16:00, which helps if you work weekday office hours. English, Japanese and Chinese consultations are available.
If you are covered by NHIS as a resident, you may also be eligible for annual scaling, which pairs well with a retainer check. See our international patients guide for payment and records, and our orthodontics in Seoul page for broader options.
Book a consultation
Send a photo of your teeth and, if you have it, your old retainer. Message us on WhatsApp at +82-10-8354-2975 or use our WhatsApp booking link. Lucid Dental Clinic is on the 3rd–4th floors of the COWAY Building, 606 Nonhyeon-ro, Gangnam-gu, directly in front of Exit 3 of Eonju Station (Line 9). Hours: Mon & Fri 10:00–18:00, Tue–Thu 10:00–20:30, Sat and public holidays 10:00–16:00; closed Sundays.
Frequently asked questions
Can I bring a retainer scan file from my home orthodontist?
Yes, bring or send any records you have. Whether an older file can be used depends on how recent it is and whether your teeth have moved since. In most cases a fresh scan or impression is taken after the exam.
Can a fixed retainer wire be reattached?
Often, if the wire is intact and teeth have not moved, it can be rebonded. If the wire is bent or teeth have shifted, a new wire or a removable retainer may be advised.
How quickly do teeth move without a retainer?
It varies from person to person. Some people notice changes within weeks, while others stay stable longer. Because it is hard to predict, getting a replacement promptly is the safer approach.
Can I use my old retainer if it feels tight?
A slightly tight fit may mean teeth have started to move. Do not force a retainer that will not seat or that causes pain; have it checked, as forcing it can crack it or strain the teeth.
Should I get a spare retainer before leaving Korea?
Many people find a spare useful, especially if they travel often. Ask at your appointment whether a second retainer makes sense for you. Each retainer has a reference fee of ₩300,000.