So you’ve finished Invisalign treatment. Your teeth are straight, your smile looks great, now what?
You’re not quite done. To keep those results, wearing a retainer after Invisalign is essential. It’s the final step in protecting the time and investment you’ve made in your smile.
Here’s what you need to know about post-Invisalign retention.
Why Do I Need a Retainer After Invisalign?
Even after your teeth have shifted into place, they can still move. The bone and gum tissue around them need time to stabilize. Without a retainer, your teeth may gradually shift back, a process called “orthodontic relapse.”
Wearing a retainer helps:
- Maintain your tooth alignment
- Prevent bite changes
- Support long-term results from your Invisalign plan
Your smile looks the way it does because of consistent pressure over time. The retainer simply keeps that alignment in place.
What Kind of Retainer Will I Get?
At Ward + Campbell Orthodontics, we’ll recommend one of two types of retainers based on your case:
1. Clear Plastic Retainer (Essix Retainer)
- Looks like your final Invisalign tray
- Made from a thicker material for durability
- Nearly invisible and easy to wear
This is the most common option after Invisalign.
2. Fixed (Bonded) Retainer
- A thin wire bonded behind your front teeth
- Not visible from the front
- Stays in place 24/7
- May require special flossing tools
We may recommend this for patients at higher risk of relapse, especially in the lower front teeth.
How Often Should I Wear It?
Here’s the typical retainer wear schedule after Invisalign:
- Long-term: wear your retainer every night for life. If you skip a night on occasion, don’t worry, but try not to skip multiple nights.
Some people try going without it for a few nights and notice shifting almost immediately. Don’t take that risk. Follow the instructions given for the retainer given by your orthodontist.
What Happens If I Don’t Wear It?
Even missing a few nights a week can lead to noticeable changes over time.
Common issues we see:
- Gaps between front teeth returning
- Mild crowding reappearing
- Bite feeling slightly “off” again
- Retainer no longer fitting properly
If your retainer feels tight or stops fitting, it may be a sign that your teeth have started shifting. Call our office and we can check your alignment and recommend next steps.
How to Care for Your Retainer
To get the most out of your retainer:
- Clean it daily with a soft toothbrush and mild soap (avoid toothpaste, which can scratch it). Retainer cleaning pods also work well.
- Store it in its case when not in use. Never wrap it in a napkin
- Keep it away from heat, including dishwashers, hot cars, and boiling water
- Avoid biting down hard when putting it in, this prevents cracks or warping
If your retainer gets damaged or lost, contact us right away. The sooner we replace it, the better your chances of maintaining your alignment.
How Long Do Retainers Last?
With good care, most clear retainers last 6 to 12 months before needing replacement. Some can last longer, but wear and tear adds up.
We recommend checking your retainer regularly for:
- Cracks or bends
- Loose fit
- Warping
- Discoloration
If something doesn’t feel right, bring it in. We can adjust or replace it to keep your results on track.
Ask Us About Our Retainer Program
Ward + Campbell Orthodontics offers a Retainer Program which helps our patients keep their smile investment looking great at a discounted price.
Ask for details at your next visit or call us anytime!