How Long Do Retainers Last?

The type of retainer prescribed will depend on the type of braces you wore earlier, your individual needs, and your lifestyle. The three most common types of retainers are:

Removable Hawley wire retainers

Advantages:

• Lasts for a long time
• Can be tightened or repaired
• Allow the bite to "settle" into a more comfortable position over time
• Can be custom designed with many colors, logos, etc.

Disadvantages:

• Do not cover the biting surface of the teeth, so they don’t protect against grinding
• Allow slight movement of the teeth
• Are more expensive to replace
• More noticeable visually as the metal wire can be seen
• Bulky coverage of the palate is bothersome to some patients
• Can be lost or broken

Removable clear plastic retainers

Advantages:

• Hold the teeth in the exact position they were moved to
• Protect the teeth against wear from grinding
• Almost invisible
• Are less expensive to replace than other retainer options
• If slight movement occurs, wearing them full time can help move the teeth back into the proper position

Disadvantages

• Don't last as long as the other retainers
• Are easy to lose because they are so clear

Bonded permanent retainers

Advantages:

• Can last for many years if properly maintained
• Can't be lost as they are permanently glued in

Disadvantages

• Are much more difficult to clean, brush, and floss
• You must be mindful about not eating things that are too hard

Here are some tips for caring for your retainers:

• Brush and floss around your fixed retainer. The wire can accumulate food and plaque just like braces, so oral hygiene is important. You will also want to keep up with your regular dental appointments, so your dentist can ensure the area is clean and cavity-free.
• Always keep your removable retainer in its case when you are not wearing it. Never place it on a napkin or tissue because it can get thrown away.
• Pets love retainers, so it is best to store them in their case when you take them out to brush and floss. The last thing you want is your dog damaging it.
• Remove your retainer before eating and drinking anything aside from plain water. It is especially important to take it out even if you’re just taking a sip of a drink. The liquid and sugars can get stuck between your teeth and your retainer, which will increase your risk of tooth decay.
• As for how to clean your retainer, gently brush it with a soft-bristled toothbrush and some nonabrasive toothpaste whenever you brush your teeth. This will get rid of plaque and any food debris. For deeper cleaning, you can also occasionally use a retainer cleaner and let it soak. This will prevent it from smelling and get rid of any build-up.
• Don’t store clear retainers in hot vehicles or drink hot drinks with them in your mouth. The heat can warp the retainer, which will affect the fit and could potentially result in your teeth shifting.
• If you lose a retainer, call the doctor’s office right away to have it replaced. Not wearing your retainer even for a few nights, will result in your teeth shifting. It is important to get a new one to maintain your smile.

The easiest way to ensure your smile stays straight is to think ahead and always have a spare set on hand, especially when you are not using permanent retainers.