Your Invisalign treatment was even more convenient and comfortable than you thought, but you’ve just worn your last set of aligners and are glad it’s over! You’re ready to go out and share your smile confidently because you know your teeth look straight, healthy, and beautiful.
But is your orthodontic treatment really finished? No, because now you need to wear your retainer to ensure your teeth don’t relapse into their original crooked position. You’ve invested money and months of effort in the process, and the last thing you want is to watch it go to waste!
What Does an Orthodontic Retainer Do?
Wearing your Invisalign aligners for 22 hours a day created the tension needed to reposition your teeth into the correct alignment. After treatment, wearing your retainer maintains the tension, keeping your teeth straight and preventing them from relapsing.
One example of orthodontic relapse is adults who had treatment as children but neglected to wear their retainers as instructed. Many of them now find themselves looking to Invisalign as a solution to get back their straight smiles.
Do I Have to Wear My Retainer All the Time?
How often and how long you need to wear a retainer after Invisalign or any orthodontic treatment depends on your situation. Some Invisalign patients are instructed to wear their retainers during the day for several months, while others may need to wear them only at night while they sleep.
Your Invisalign dentist in Aurora, CO, knows what your treatment involved and will determine what’s ideal in your case.
When Can I Stop Wearing My Retainer?
Your teeth move throughout your life, so you can’t stop wearing your retainer without risking at least a slight relapse. One way to stay motivated is to view your retainer as a continuation of Invisalign treatment to protect your smile and your investment.
We’re Here to Answer Your Invisalign Questions!
Dr. Holly Baller is an experienced Invisalign provider in Aurora, CO, offering traditional braces for adults and children. She would be happy to answer your questions, so please call Baller Dental & Ortho at Southlands to schedule a convenient appointment.