Life After Invisalign: How Long Will I Need to Wear My Retainer?

The time has come. You’ve completed Invisalign treatment, and you are now ready to show the world your perfectly aligned smile! However, there is still more work to do even after taking your plastic trays off for the last time. Wearing a retainer is crucial after finishing any type of orthodontic treatment. It helps your teeth stay in place while the jawbone and connective tissue grow around the base to solidify your results. Read on to learn why you need to wear the oral appliance and how long you’ll be expected to wear it.   

The Importance of Wearing a Retainer After Invisalign

Invisalign works by applying gentle pressure to a portion of your smile at a time until the entire thing is perfectly aligned. Even after you achieve your desired results, your newly straightened teeth will remember their original positions. If you fail to use a retainer to keep them in place, they’ll gradually shift back to their old positions.

It’s incredibly important that patients wear a retainer after completing orthodontic treatment because it trains the newly aligned teeth to stay in place. The oral appliance gives the teeth the time they need to ‘cure’, similar to how a pole needs support until the cement that holds it dries.  

How Long Will You Need to Wear Your Retainer?

Since every smile is unique, the amount of time you’ll need to wear your retainer will depend on your case. However, almost all patients are initially required to wear their oral appliance for 12 to 22 hours a day, every day, for three to six months. After those first few months, most people will transition to wearing their retainer only at night. Depending on your situation, you’ll be instructed to wear your device every night for a few weeks to a few months.

Tips for Caring for Your Retainer

Practicing good oral health is crucial, especially if you wear a retainer. You must keep your retainer clean to discourage bacteria growth and prevent damage. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Remove your retainer before eating and store it safely in its designated case
• Gently rinse and brush your retainer every time you take it out of your mouth
• Avoid using harsh chemicals like bleach or alcohol-based mouthwash to clean your retainer
• Always remove your retainer before brushing your teeth to allow for a more thorough cleaning

Diligently wearing your retainer is the final step of your journey towards a straight, brand-new smile. By following your dentist’s instructions and taking proper care of your oral appliance, you can enjoy a stunning and functional grin for years to come!

About the Author

Dr. Jonathan Aguilar is passionate about helping patients achieve and maintain optimal oral health. After earning his dental doctorate at the Texas A&M Health Science Center Baylor College of Dentistry, he worked in multiple types of dental settings. To learn more about the importance of wearing a retainer after Invisalign, visit Dr. Aguilar’s website or call (940) 566-5332.