Invisalign is often considered a more comfortable and discreet way to straighten your smile than traditional braces. Unlike standard orthodontics, this clear alternative utilizes transparent plastic trays that fit snuggly over your arches to shift your teeth to their ideal positions.
However, many patients are surprised to learn they must wear a retainer after their treatment is complete. If you’re unsure why your orthodontist requires one of these oral appliances or want to know how long you might be required to wear it, continue reading to learn more!
How Long Does Invisalign Treatment Take?
This service works by exerting gentle but consistent pressure over your teeth to move them over a designated period. But to keep them from reverting to their starting places, you must wear the trays for 20 to 22 hours daily. Then, after a week or two, you’ll be asked to switch to the next set in your series to continue the forward motion of your grin.
Although your total treatment timeline can depend on your unique circumstances, most people can usually expect to complete Invisalign within 12 to 18 months, which is often less time than it takes traditional braces to do the same job.
Why Do I Need a Retainer After Invisalign?
Orthodontic services are only effective because your teeth are anchored by muscles, ligaments, and other tissues that have a natural capacity for movement. Because of this, your provider can use different services, including Invisalign, to correct your dental or bite misalignments.
But your mouth also has muscle memory, and your teeth are prone to shifting back to their original placements, especially in the period immediately after treatment is completed. Your orthodontist can thankfully provide a custom-fitted retainer that helps them stay in their corrected positions long enough to acclimate to the changes more permanently.
How Long Must I Wear My Retainer Following Invisalign Treatment?
The amount of time you’ll be directed to wear your new retainer is based significantly on your unique circumstances. For example, some patients are required to wear theirs all day and night for several months or years, while others might only need to insert them overnight. Some folks might even be required to wear their oral appliance on a daily basis moving forward to maintain their straightened smile.
Your orthodontist can provide more detailed instructions regarding when and how long to wear your retainer to help you protect and preserve the results once you have successfully completed Invisalign treatment!
Meet the Author
Dr. Justyna Balicka is a true expert in the field of orthodontics and is passionate about helping people of all ages improve their dental condition by straightening their smiles. She earned her dental doctorate from New York University College of Dentistry, then completed a three-year orthodontic residency at St. Barnabas Hospital. Today, she is a Diplomate of the American Board of Orthodontics, a rare honor, and offers a variety of orthodontic services and oral appliances to meet your unique needs. You can request an appointment on the website or by calling (631) 201-8100.