Because teeth have memory and tend to shift back to their original positions after orthodontic treatment, we recommend wearing retainers at night for life.
The retainers are typically very similar to your clear aligners, so they are comfortable to wear and don’t interfere with your sleep. If you clench or grind your teeth at night (bruxism), a night guard may also act as your retainer, keeping your teeth in proper alignment while protecting them from wear.
Will My Teeth Move Back?
As long as you consistently wear your retainers as directed, your teeth should maintain their new alignment.
Many patients who complete Invisalign® treatment are doing so because they didn’t consistently wear their retainers after orthodontic treatment during adolescence, and they experienced relapse.
What Happens If I Stop Wearing My Retainer?
Even a few missed nights can allow teeth to begin shifting, and you may notice your retainer feeling tight when you put it back in. If this happens, wear it more consistently and contact our office.
Minor shifting can sometimes be corrected quickly, but waiting too long may mean you need a new set of aligners. Keep your retainer in its case when not in use, clean it daily, and bring it to your check-ups so our dentists can make sure it still fits well. Retainers can wear out or warp over time, so replacing them when necessary protects your investment.
Contact our DUMBO dental office if you have questions about clear aligner treatment or retainer wear.