How Long Do I Need to Wear a Retainer After Braces?

If you’ve reached the point where it’s time to start using a retainer, we want to offer you our congratulations. This is a huge milestone in orthodontic treatment, even if it may not feel like it! Brodsky Orthodontics is going to cover some general information about retainers, as well as how long you need to wear a retainer after braces.

Different Styles

Patients aren’t always aware that there are a few distinct categories of retainers, all of which work for the greater good of keeping your new smile in place. These are three primary types of retainers, which Dr. Joel, Dr. Charles, or Dr. Vistica will choose based on your needs:

1. 1. Hawley retainers are crafted from a durable acrylic base paired with a metal wire. The acrylic sits comfortably against the roof of your mouth or behind your lower teeth, while the wire secures and stabilizes your teeth.
      • Consider This: These retainers are highly adjustable, long-lasting, and easy to clean, making them a tried-and-true option for many patients.
   2. Clear plastic retainers are the sleek, modern sibling of traditional retainers. Clear plastic retainers fit snugly over your teeth, much like clear aligners, and are barely noticeable to others.
      • Consider This:  While their discreet appearance makes them a favorite pick, they can wear out more quickly and may need periodic replacement.
   3.   Bonded retainers are an expected hero for many patients, since they are fixed in place. These retainers involve a thin wire permanently attached to the back of your teeth, offering consistent, around-the-clock support.
      • Consider This: Patients who might forget to wear a removable retainer or have teeth prone to shifting can benefit from the no-fuss nature of a bonded retainer.

Retainer Myths

Like a lot of aspects of orthodontic treatment, we’ve found that there are some popular misconceptions out there about retainers. Our team at Brodsky Orthodontics wants to take a moment to unpack and debunk a few of these myths about wearing your retainer:

• Myth 1: Retainers are only needed for a few months. 

• • Fact: Full-time wear might last a few months or so, but even after that—patients will need to wear their retainer at night for the rest of their life. This depends on your teeth, of course—but you definitely won’t be limited to a few months of wear and then discontinue use for good.

• Myth 2: Retainers are uncomfortable and not worth the hassle. 

• • Fact: If your retainer is fitted properly, it shouldn’t be terribly uncomfortable! Just like braces or clear aligners, they can take some getting used to. And they are not only “worth the hassle,” but they’re 100% necessary for your smile.

• Myth 3: You can skip your retainer now and then, it’s no big deal!

• • Fact: You know how you don’t want to skip a daily medication prescribed by your doctor? Retainers are in a similar category. You need to carefully stick to your provider’s wear schedule for you, which will vary through the first couple years of retention before evening out into part-time wear. You’re putting your new smile at serious risk by foregoing your retainer.

Tips for Successful Retainer Wear

Our doctors have a few best practices for you to keep in your back pocket when it comes to your retainer. These can help make the experience more pleasant and consistent overall!

1. Set a Routine: Based on our instructions, wear your retainer daily or a few times a week. You can set reminders on your phone if you need to. Whatever helps keep you on track—but consistency is the goal.
2. Don’t Let it Get Gross: Clean your retainer regularly if it’s removable to ward off stinky bacteria. It’s always smart to avoid hot water, since it can easily warp the shape of your retainer.
3. Count on Your Case: Your retainer’s case is basically its home! When it’s not in your mouth, be committed to returning it back to its case. One of the most common issues we see with retainers is patients losing them—which can be easy to do if you aren’t careful.
4. Keep it Away from Pets: Dogs eat homework, as well as retainers. Seriously, though: Be careful with your furry friends when it comes to your retainer, as they are both a common target for consumption and a choking hazard.
5. Replace as Needed: If you notice signs that your retainer is getting worn out or fitting poorly, don’t ignore them. Let Brodsky Orthodontics know so that we can arrange for a replacement. 

Shaping Up Strongly

Brodsky Orthodontics can acknowledge that orthodontic treatment is often a lengthy process—but every single step of it is important. Retainers allow you to keep your amazing results in the long run, so use them wisely. We look forward to seeing you in Lakewood ! Retainer insurance with our Retainers for Life Program is only a click away.