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Braces off? Aligners done? Your smile’s glow-up is just getting started!

Why Retainers Matter

Once your braces or aligners come off, your teeth can shift back if not maintained properly. Retainers are essential to keep your smile in place and protect the investment you've made in your orthodontic treatment. Wearing them as prescribed helps prevent relapse and keeps your bite stable.

Invialign Aligner set with box

Wearing Your Retainer

🕒 Full-Time Wear (Immediately after treatment):

  • Wear your retainer 22 hours/day unless instructed otherwise.

  • Remove only for eating, brushing, or playing contact sports.

🌙 Night-Time Wear (After stabilization):

Your orthodontist will let you know when you can transition to wearing it only at night — usually after a few months.

A man trying to wear aligners

How to Clean & Care for Your Retainer

Do's:

  • Rinse with lukewarm water every time you remove it.

  • Clean daily using a soft toothbrush and non-abrasive soap.

  • Store it in a ventilated retainer case when not in use.

Don'ts:

  • Don’t use hot water (it can warp the plastic).

  • Avoid using toothpaste, which may scratch the surface.

  • Never wrap it in a napkin (easy to throw away by mistake!).

Steps showing how to maintain aligners

Retainer Types We Offer

Clear Retainers 

  • Invisible and removable

  • Must be handled gently

  • Usually replaced every 1–2 years

Hawley Retainers

  • Acrylic base with a wire

  • More durable and adjustable

  • Available in various colors

Fixed Retainers

  • Cemented behind teeth

  • Requires extra oral hygiene care

  • Cannot be removed by the patient

Frequently asked questions

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