One of the best parts of Invisalign is that you get to watch your smile transform before your eyes. Even then, there’s nothing quite like the moment when you take off your last tray, and your new smile is revealed! After soaking up your gorgeous new smile for a few minutes, your dentist will provide you with your custom retainer. Naturally, your first question might be, “How long do I need to wear my retainer?” Here’s the answer!
So, How Long Do You Need to Wear Your Retainer?
First, let’s discuss how retainers were handled previously. Years ago, patients were only instructed to wear theirs each night for a year or two. However, it didn’t take long for dental professionals to realize that this isn’t enough. After all, roughly 50% of patients experienced orthodontic relapse (the phenomenon where your teeth begin to drift back into their previous, misaligned positions). As a result, patients are now encouraged to make wearing their retainer a lifelong best practice.
Don’t Worry – There’s Good News Too
If wearing your retainers for the rest of your life isn’t what you were expecting, don’t worry. Although these orthodontic appliances used to be made of a mixture of brightly colored materials and metal, you can now choose ones that are as discreet as your aligners were! Plus, they won’t irritate the soft tissue in your mouth. In short, wearing your retainer consistently won’t be a hassle because of how discreet and comfortable it is!
What Happens If You Don’t Wear a Retainer?
As mentioned above, orthodontic relapse is a very real concern. Since it can happen both shortly after your Invisalign treatment and decades down the line, it’s strongly recommended that you make wearing your retainer a habit from the start. If you don’t, then your teeth will begin to drift out of their perfectly aligned positions, wasting the time and money you invested in straightening your teeth in the process.
If you want to learn more about the importance of wearing your retainer or you want to have a newer, more discreet one made, don’t hesitate to talk to your dental team!
About the Doctor
Dr. Ron Sherman’s 30+ year career in the dental field is filled with countless accomplishments, starting with earning his Doctor of Dental Surgery from the University of Pittsburgh. However, what really sets him apart from the rest is his commitment to customer service, beautiful smiles, and seamless treatments. In fact, he gives his personal cell number to everyone. That way, you always have a place to turn to for questions! If you want to learn more about preventing orthodontic relapse or you’d like to schedule an appointment, visit his website or call (425) 391-4964.