Do You Need a Retainer After Invisalign?

If you chose Invisalign to fix your bite and alignment, you’ve made a smart decision for your smile. Nothing is more exciting than finishing the last aligner in your series. Although you’re looking forward to not wearing aligners anymore, you’re going to need a retainer to lock in your results. Don’t worry, you won’t have to wear it for as long as your aligners. Here’s how long you can expect to need a retainer after finishing Invisalign.

Invisalign Works Differently Than Metal Braces

Invisalign differs from metal braces because it doesn’t use brackets or wires. There’s no tugging or pulling because clear aligners apply continual pressure to slowly move teeth into their best positions. In about 12 months, Invisalign can fix gaps, minor overcrowding, and bite issues. Wearing the aligners for 22 hours per day and switching to the next in the series on time prevents delays in reaching your goals. 

A Retainer Keeps Your Teeth in Place

A retainer is needed after orthodontic treatment to stop teeth from moving back into their previous positions. Although you’ve finished your treatment, your bones and ligaments need time to adapt to the tooth movements to hold them in their new positions. Retainers come in many forms, like:

• Hawley Retainers: A plastic mold holds a wire that runs along the outside of your teeth.
• Clear Retainers: Clear plastic is used to create a retainer that fits over your teeth.
• Bonded Retainers: A wire runs along the backside of your teeth and is bonded in place with composite resin. 

Your dentist will help you choose the best type of retainer to safeguard your new smile while meeting your preferences. 

You Won’t Have to Wear a Retainer Continuously

Initially, your dentist will recommend wearing a retainer daily for 12 to 22 hours per day for the next 3 to 6 months. After that time, you will only need to wear it at night, which is necessary for about 12 months. Your dentist may suggest wearing your retainer periodically after the first year, depending on your needs.

You’ll need to remove your retainer before eating, just like your clear aligners. Rinse and gently brush your retainer every time you remove it. Don’t use any harsh chemicals to clean it, like alcohol or bleach. Don’t forget to take your retainer out when brushing and flossing your teeth.

If you don’t wear your retainer enough, especially within the first 6 months, your teeth can shift over time from the pressure of chewing. You’ve spent a lot of time and money on Invisalign. Don’t risk your results by not wearing your retainer. It’s the final step to ensuring your beautiful new smile lasts.

About Dr. Javier Ortiz

Dr. Ortiz earned his dental degree at Boston University and has completed advanced training at Tufts University and many other prestigious facilities. He can treat the most complex dental issues to create healthy, attractive smiles. If you need a retainer after Invisalign, contact our office today to request an appointment.