Retainers After Invisalign

Post-Invisalign wearing of retainers is important because your teeth will go back to their original positions if they're not kept in place. Why retainers are a necessity:

1. Maintain New Tooth Position
After Invisalign treatment, your teeth are in a different position, but the tissues and bone haven't adjusted yet. Retainers keep your teeth in position while these structures get used to the new position, which could take months.

2. Prevent Relapse
Without retainers, your teeth will slowly return to their original position — this is orthodontic relapse. This is most likely to occur in the first year after treatment, but shifting can happen even years later.

3. Keep Your Investment Safe
Invisalign treatment is time and money; wearing retainers protects that investment by keeping your smile perfectly aligned.

4. Teeth Naturally Shift with Age
Even people who never had braces may get moving teeth as they age. Preventing this natural change in direction comes with long-term retention using retainers.

For How Long Do You Wear Retainers?
Initial (First 3–6 months): Usually full-time (except when eating or flossing).

Then: Generally only while sleeping — in most situations for the remainder of your life to preserve long-term effects.

If you don't wear your retainers, your teeth will shift enough that you'll need to wear Invisalign or braces again, so it's well worth the effort to wear them as directed.