How Long Do I Need to Wear Retainers After Invisalign?

Invisalign is one of the most popular, effective, and discreet orthodontic methods for achieving a straighter smile. Unlike traditional braces, clear aligners provide a much smoother process, and your treatment can be completed in a fraction of the time! However, once you’ve finished, you’ll still need to wear retainers to preserve your results. Keep reading to learn how long you’ll need to use these and what to expect after your Invisalign treatment.

Will I Need to Wear Retainers Forever?

After you’ve finished your clear aligner process, you’ll be provided with retainers to wear between 12 and 22 hours a day, usually for six months. From there, you may switch to only wearing them overnight, meaning you won’t have to worry about them throughout the day. Once it’s been 12 months, your dentist might suggest you transition to wearing your retainers three to five nights each week. While you’ll likely have to wear them throughout the rest of your life, it won’t technically be “forever.”

What Happens If I Don’t Wear Retainers After Invisalign?

As you’re aware, your teeth will gradually be moved into a more ideal position while you work through your series of Invisalign trays. Once your pearly whites have shifted to form a perfectly straight smile, it’ll take some time for them to settle into their new places. However, since your teeth are at risk of moving back to their original positions, you’ll need to wear your retainers, especially during the first six months. If not, you might end up relapsing and having to start back at the beginning of the process.

How Do I Protect My Invisalign Retainer from Damage?

Any damage to your retainer could potentially compromise your aftercare process. To prevent any setbacks or relapse, you’ll simply have to follow the best practices you used to maintain your clear aligners. Be sure to remove your retainers before every meal and clean them often. Consider storing them in a protective (and brightly colored) case when you aren’t wearing them to keep them from getting damaged or accidentally thrown in the trash.

While it might initially seem like a nuisance when first wearing your retainers, you’ll easily grow accustomed to eventually using them overnight. By doing so, you can ensure the results from Invisalign remain intact for many years to come!

About the Author

Dr. Travis A. Markle earned his dental doctorate from the University of Texas Health Science Center in San Antonio. He’s completed hours of continuing education to refine his skills and is a member of several organizations such as the Academy of General Dentistry and the American Dental Association. He offers a wide range of high-quality treatments, including Invisalign. If you’d like to know more about how long you’ll wear your retainers, visit his website or call him at 903-597-7902.