We live in a world where you don’t need to settle for a smile that you aren’t confident showing off. There are several teeth straightening options to choose from, including Invisalign. This treatment involves the use of a series of clear aligners to slowly push your teeth into the proper position. Once your new smile is ready, you will need to wear an Invisalign retainer after your treatment, but for how long? Continue reading to learn more from your dentist in Myrtle Beach.
How Long Does an Invisalign Retainer Need to Be Worn?
The number of hours you will need to wear your retainer depends on your individual treatment plan. However, patients are generally asked to wear their retainer 10-22 hours every day for 3-6 months. At this point, it is recommended patients wear their retainer while sleeping every night for at least one year.
From there, your dentist may suggest you wear your retainer for a few nights a week to prevent future movement. In the end, if you don’t want your teeth to shift back, you will need to regularly use your retainer for the rest of your life.
What Happens If You Don’t Wear Your Retainer?
When you get orthodontic treatment like Invisalign, your teeth will move from their original locations to new ones. However, they won’t stay in these spots for very long without the use of a retainer. They are designed to lock your teeth into place and keep them from shifting back to their previous positions. This way, you won’t end up needing additional orthodontic work later. You don’t want your teeth to undo all your efforts.
When Do You Get Your Invisalign Retainer?
You will receive your retainer after you complete your Invisalign treatment. It looks very similar to your actual aligners. The difference is it is not designed to put additional pressure on the teeth. Instead, it keeps your teeth in place and prevents future movement.
Wearing your Invisalign retainer is a lifetime commitment if you want to keep your teeth looking and feeling their best. Fortunately, you don’t need to wear it all the time as you do with your aligners. With proper care and maintenance, you will be able to sport your straight smile for the rest of your life!
About the Author
Dr. Jack Markusen has been working hard for the smiles of South Carolina for more than four decades. He prides himself on taking an artistic approach to general dentistry and cosmetic dentistry. Dr. Markusen is a member of the South Carolina Dental Association. If you are interested in Invisalign, he uses an iTero 3D Scanner to plan your treatment and precisely create your aligners. You can schedule a consultation on his website or by calling (843) 916-0990.