What’s a Retainer?

You may need a retainer to make sure your teeth remember their new positions. Some are clear plastic retainers, some go only on the bottom or top teeth and some are permanent (meaning you do not have to take them out and put them in). You may wear a retainer for a few months or a couple years. Our orthodontist currently recommends “lifelong retention” which for most patients means 2-3 nights a week for as long as you want to keep your teeth straight.