{"id":476,"date":"2024-03-11T05:52:00","date_gmt":"2024-03-11T05:52:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.wacofamilydental.com\/blog\/?p=476"},"modified":"2024-04-11T05:57:41","modified_gmt":"2024-04-11T05:57:41","slug":"why-do-i-need-retainers-after-invisalign","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.wacofamilydental.com\/blog\/2024\/03\/11\/why-do-i-need-retainers-after-invisalign\/","title":{"rendered":"How Long Will I Need a Retainer After Invisalign?"},"content":{"rendered":"

\"WomanNothing is more exciting than popping your last Invisalign<\/a> aligner into your mouth. The end of your journey is right around the corner; however, your treatment isn\u2019t over just yet. You\u2019ll require retainers to ensure your investment lasts. Here\u2019s how long you need to wear your retainers after finishing Invisalign.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n\n\n

Why Are Retainers Important?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Retainers are the final step to ensure your new smile stays straight. Your retainers will hold your teeth in their new positions to allow your jawbone and ligaments to heal around them. If you don\u2019t wear them, your teeth will drift back into their previous positions. You don\u2019t want to undo the time and effort you\u2019ve put into fixing your bite and alignment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

You don\u2019t have to worry about a noticeable appliance. Retainers come in many styles, including aligners. Your retainers can be just as discreet as Invisalign, but your dentist will explain all your options.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Average Retainer Timeline<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Every situation differs. Your dentist will discuss your retainer timeline and what you can expect along the way. Initially, your dentist will probably instruct you to wear your retainers as much as possible, about 20 hours per day. You should only remove it for oral hygiene and meals. You can expect to need your retainers at all times for about 3-6 months. After that time, you may only need to wear them at night. Typically, after 12 months, your retainers will only be needed 3-5 times each week. If your retainers feel tight, you may not be wearing them enough. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Caring for Your Retainers<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Your retainers must last. You can prevent damaging them or needing replacements often by following a few tips:<\/p>\n\n\n\n