Will I Require a Retainer After My Teeth Are Straightened?

In this video, Dr. Matthew Keider emphasizes the importance of wearing retainers after completing clear aligner treatment to maintain your teeth’s new position. Learn about the recommended retainer schedule and the lifelong commitment required to preserve your smile—schedule your free consultation today to discuss your post-treatment care.

After completing clear aligner treatment, it is crucial to wear retainers to maintain the new position of your teeth. Retainers help keep your teeth stable and prevent them from shifting back to their original position.

In the beginning, after finishing your clear aligner treatment, retainers should be worn for at least 22 hours a day for the first three months. This helps ensure the teeth stay in place as they fully settle. After the initial period, you will only need to wear them at night while you sleep. However, it’s important to note that you will need to wear retainers for the rest of your life.

Even after many years of consistent retainer use, if you lose a retainer, it’s crucial to get a replacement. You may think that after wearing them for 20 years, your teeth will stay in place, but they will inevitably shift without the retainer. To maintain the results of your clear aligner treatment and keep your smile in its new position, wearing retainers long-term is essential.

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