Your Invisalign® or SureSmile® clear aligner treatment is finished. Now what? To keep your smile looking sharp, you’ll need to wear a retainer. But for how long? Let’s dive into the timeframe and reasoning behind it.

What are Retainers For?

Clear aligners did the tough work of moving your teeth into the proper position. However, if teeth are not supported and guided to where they should stay, they tend to shift back to their old position over time. This is where retainers save the day—and your smile! By wearing a retainer, your teeth will stay in their designated positions, keeping your smile exactly the way you want it.

Your Retainer—The Truth About How Long to Wear It

The exact time period you should wear your retainer depends on a case-by-case basis. However, the general rule is to wear your retainers every night for at least a year. After that, you can try shifting to every other night. Once you’ve worn your retainer for a few years, you can consider cutting it down to 3-5 nights a week. (Note: Follow your dentist’s recommendations.)

After a few years, most individuals choose to wear their retainers at night around three to five times a week. Some people’s teeth shift more than others, so whatever routine you get in, make sure that it is the best one for you. If you find your retainers feel tight when you put them on, that can be a sign that your teeth are shifting while your retainers are out, and you might need to start wearing them more frequently.

Different people’s teeth shift in different ways, so while this may work for one person it may lead to additional movements and gaps for others. If you want the absolute best results, make a habit of wearing your retainer every night. Your smile is worth it!

Schedule an Appointment Today

If you’d like to see if Invisalign® or SureSmile® is right for you,make an appointment with us today! We’ll get you on the way to a straighter smile you’ll love.