Many people choose to straighten their smiles with Invisalign because it is considered more comfortable and discreet than traditional orthodontics. Instead of metal brackets, this treatment uses transparent plastic trays that fit over your arches to gently shift your teeth.
Plus, many patients can complete treatment within 12 to 18 months compared to the 24+ months usually required for standard braces. But you might be surprised to learn that you’ll likely need a retainer to maintain the results. If you’re curious how long you might have to wear one of these oral appliances, continue reading to learn more!
Why Do I Need a Retainer After Invisalign?
Your teeth are anchored in place through muscles, ligaments, and other tissues that have a natural capacity for movement, which is what allows orthodontic services to be effective. However, they also have a ‘muscle memory’ and are prone to returning to their starting positions, especially after treatment is completed and you’re no longer required to wear the trays for 20 to 22 hours daily.
A retainer doesn’t exert enough force to shift your teeth, but it can help keep them in their ideal positions long enough for your mouth to adjust to the changes. There are several types, including clear trays that are not dissimilar from Invisalign itself. But depending on your situation, your dentist might recommend a different option, such as a fixed retainer or a Hawley retainer, both of which include metal wires to help keep your teeth in place.
How Long Will I Need to Wear a Retainer?
It’s natural to wonder how long you’ll need to wear another oral appliance after completing Invisalign, but the answer can depend significantly on your unique circumstances. Some patients are given specific instructions on when and how long to wear their retainer. For example, your dentist might instruct you to wear it overnight for a few months, or they might ask that you keep it in all day and night for several weeks. However, many patients are directed to wear theirs on an ongoing basis moving forward.
How Can I Help Maintain My Retainer?
Depending on the type of retainer you have, you can usually expect it to last anywhere from 5 to 10+ years before requiring a replacement. You can help preserve its condition and potentially extend its lifespan by:
- Cleaning it twice daily. You should take it out morning and night to brush and floss your teeth, then gently scrub its surfaces with a soft-bristle toothbrush and warm, soapy water that won’t cling to or abrade the material.
- Storing it safely. If you have a removable retainer, you can avoid damaging or losing it by placing it in its carrier case when you’re not wearing it.
- Avoiding hot water. High temperatures might warp the materials so your device no longer fits or functions correctly.
If you have additional questions about wearing a retainer after completing Invisalign, your dentist can provide information tailored to your circumstances!
Meet the Author
Dr. J.D. Robison takes pride in helping improve his patients’ lives by enhancing their dental health. He studied at Purdue University, the University of Michigan, and the University of Detroit Mercy, and is committed to continuing education to offer the most contemporary treatments using state-of-the-art technology. Today, he offers a comprehensive menu of services, including Invisalign, to patients of all ages. You can request an appointment on the website or call (734) 453-6320.