Retainers help ensure teeth stay in their final positions. When the braces come off, it’s not guaranteed that your teeth will stay put. Your ligaments and bones surrounding the teeth need to stabilize, so wearing a retainer is critical to keeping your teeth in the positions we prescribe. If you want your new, beautiful smile to last the rest of your life, then the retention period is a necessary phase of orthodontic treatment.

How Long Should I Wear My Retainer?

We recommend that you wear your retainer at least two or three nights a week for a lifetime. Many patients find that they can wear their retainers less and less over time once they have been out of treatment for at least a year. The effects of not wearing your retainer can really add up. Your treatment with us ends when the braces come off, so it’s up to you to wear your retainers as prescribed by Dr. Harris.

We also advise patients to keep retainers in a case when not in your mouth. Losing or breaking your retainer will require additional fees for a replacement.

Have any questions about your retainer? Contact our office!