Getting your braces off feels amazing, and then your orthodontist mentions a retainer. Most patients wear a retainer full-time for 3–6 months after braces (some providers extend this to 6–12 months), then nights only long-term. The exact plan depends on your case, age, and your orthodontist’s guidance.
Bottom line: Retainers help keep teeth in their corrected positions while bone and soft tissues adapt. Skipping wear increases the chance of shifting and, in some cases, retreatment.
Dr. Jonathan Petrover is the lead orthodontist at Petrover Orthodontics, serving patients in Boynton Beach and Wellington, Florida. With a focus on personalized care and advanced treatments, he helps children, teens, and adults achieve healthy, confident smiles.