RETENTION IS FOREVER
Or for as long as you want your teeth straight!
When the teeth have been moved into their correct position and the braces are removed, then retainers are provided by your orthodontist.
Teeth are no different to the rest of our body, nothing stays the same and everything moves with age. Retainers prevent any loss of alignment within each arch.
There are many different sorts of retainers and your orthodontist will advise you what type is best for your individual situation. The amount of wear required for any removable retainer also varies on an individual basis.
Removable Retainer
Some removable retainers are clear plastic with no wires and some are a combination of plastic and wire.
Fixed Retainer
A fixed retainer is bonded to the back of two or more teeth. It requires a little extra effort with oral hygiene and can be checked and cleaned by your dentist. It is most often used behind the lower front teeth and sometimes the upper.