When braces come off, it’s exciting to see straight teeth at last. But that moment isn’t the end of the story. Teeth have a natural tendency to drift back towards their old positions, especially in the first few years. That’s where retainers come in.
Right after braces, dentists usually advise full-time or near full-time retainer wear for a period – often many months. This gives the bone and gums time to stabilise around the new positions. Over time, the schedule often shifts to night-time wear only.
So how long is “long enough”? In reality, teeth can keep changing slightly throughout life due to ageing, habits, and jaw changes. That’s why many orthodontists now say, “Retainers are for as long as you want your teeth to stay straight.” It doesn’t mean 24/7 forever, but it often means some form of night-time wear for years.
If you stop wearing retainers and notice tightness or difficulty putting them in, it’s a sign your teeth are already moving. Don’t force them; contact your dentist or orthodontist for advice.
Treat your retainer like a long-term insurance policy for your smile. A few nights a week of wear is much easier than paying for braces all over again.