How Long Do I Need To Wear Retainers after Invisalign

15 Dec How Long Do I Need To Wear Retainers after Invisalign

Invisalign treatment is one of the most convenient ways to straighten your smile. 

After treatment, you’ll be able to enjoy a better aligned, healthier smile. 

But you won’t leave your last appointment empty-handed!

Your dentist will also give you a retainer. 

So, how long do you have to wear retainers after Invisalign?

Keep reading to find out. 

Why Wear a Retainer After Invisalign?

Retainers are a normal part of the teeth straightening process. Whether you had braces or Invisalign, you will need retainers after. 

Without a retainer, your teeth will slowly shift to their former position over time. While doing so, they will leave gaps in your tissue. 

Wearing a retainer helps hold your teeth in place, allowing your bone and gum tissue to adjust to the new positions. 

How Long Do You Wear Retainers After Invisalign?

Simply put, your teeth can always shift, even several months after your treatment is complete. For that reason, you’re never 100% done wearing your retainer. 

Still, the answer to “how long do you wear a retainer after Invisalign?” is not a set one. Instead, how you wear your retainer will change over time. 

Here’s a simple breakdown of how long to wear retainers after Invisalign”

• For 3-6 months after Invisalign: At first, you must wear your retainer for as long as you had to wear your Invisalign! You should wear the retainer for at least 22 hours a day. Only remove it to eat, brush, floss, etc. 
• 6 months to 2 years: After roughly six months, you can wear the retainers only at night when you sleep. 
• 2+ years post treatment: As long as you are diligent with wearing your retainer early on, you may be able to wear them less frequently. Ideally, you should still wear it every other night. 

Invisalign Mississauga

How long do you have to wear Invisalign retainers? Technically, for the foreseeable future. However, you’ll only need to wear them constantly for roughly 6 months. 

Overall, your dentist will help you determine the ideal retainer frequency for you. The end goal is to keep your teeth aligned and prevent the need for future orthodontics. 

Choosing a quality Invisalign dentist is the first step to successful treatment. For invisalign treatment in Mississauga that you can trust, turn to the dedicated team at Schellenberg Dental. Book your consultation today!