Do You Really Need Retainers After Braces? (Yes—Here’s Why)

You’ve invested months—or maybe years—straightening your teeth with braces. The day they come off feels like a victory. But before you celebrate a “forever straight” smile, there’s one crucial step you can’t skip: wearing retainers after braces.

Retainers aren’t optional extras. They’re the tool that keeps your teeth from shifting back to their old positions. Below, we’ll break down why retainers matter, how long you need them, and what happens if you stop wearing one.

For a complete overview, check out our Ultimate Guide to Dental Retainers.

What Are Retainers—and Why Are They Needed After Braces?

Braces work by slowly moving your teeth into alignment. But once treatment ends, your teeth are still settling into their new positions. The Cochrane Oral Health Group notes that teeth naturally shift throughout life, which is why retention is so important.

Without a retainer, teeth have a natural tendency to drift back—this is called orthodontic relapse. Orthodontists agree that retainers are essential after braces, because they help “hold the line” and protect the investment you made in orthodontics.

Types of Retainers After Braces

Not all retainers are the same. Your orthodontist may recommend one of these options:

Removable Retainers

• Clear retainers (Essix style) – Thin, transparent trays that fit snugly over your teeth. Nearly invisible and very popular.

• Hawley retainers – Acrylic and wire design that allows small adjustments but is more noticeable.

Fixed (Bonded) Retainers

• A thin wire bonded behind your teeth, usually on the lower front arch.

• Invisible from the front and always working—but harder to keep clean.

Tip: Many patients use a combination (a bonded retainer on the bottom teeth and a clear removable one on top).

How Long Do You Have to Wear Retainers After Braces?

The timeline varies, but here’s a general guide:

• Immediately after braces: Full-time wear (22+ hours/day) for at least 3–6 months.

• Long-term: Transition to nighttime wear after the initial stabilization phase.

• For life? Many orthodontists now recommend lifelong nightly wear. Teeth shift naturally with age, so think of your retainer as long-term insurance. You can read more in our detailed guide on how long to wear retainers after braces.

What Happens If You Don’t Wear a Retainer?

Skipping your retainer may seem harmless, but the consequences can be frustrating—and expensive:

• Teeth shifting back toward their original positions

• Crowding or gaps returning

• Bite misalignment affecting speech or chewing

• Costly retreatment with braces or aligners to fix relapse

Simply put: wearing retainers after braces is far easier (and cheaper) than redoing orthodontic treatment.

Research shows that 50–90% of orthodontic corrections may relapse over time if retainers aren’t used consistently

Retainer Care 101

Taking care of your retainer ensures it stays clean, safe, and effective:

• Clean daily – Use a soft toothbrush and mild soap, not toothpaste (too abrasive). For more tips, see our full guide on how to clean your retainer properly

• Avoid heat – Hot water, dishwashers, or car dashboards can warp retainers.

• Store safely – Always in a protective case when not in use.

• Replace when needed – Retainers wear out over time. Keep an eye out for cracks or looseness.

FAQs About Retainers After Braces

Do you need a retainer forever?
Most people should wear one at night indefinitely. Think of it as a simple step to protect your smile.

Can I only wear my retainer at night?
After the first few months of full-time wear, yes—nighttime-only is usually sufficient.

What if I lose or break my retainer?

Replace it quickly! The longer you go without one, the greater the chance your teeth will shift. For step-by-step advice, see our guide on what to do if you lose your retainer.

Protect Your Smile with a Custom Retainer

In short, retainers after braces aren’t optional—they’re essential to keep your smile straight for life.

A retainer is your safeguard against relapse. At Sentinel Mouthguards, we craft custom retainers made from FDA-approved, BPA-free materials—the same quality you’d get from your orthodontist, but for a fraction of the price.

➡️ Order your custom retainer today and keep your smile exactly where it belongs.