Teeth Retainers

The short answer: forever! Teeth can shift at any age due to natural aging, wisdom teeth eruption, gum changes, and normal chewing forces. Initially, you'll wear retainers 22 hours per day for 3-6 months, then transition to nighttime wear only. Long-term, wearing retainers several nights per week is recommended to maintain your results permanently.

Vivera Retainers are made from the same advanced SmartTrack material used in Invisalign aligners, making them 30% stronger than other clear retainers. They're digitally designed for a precise custom fit, virtually invisible when worn, and come in sets of 4 so you always have backups. The superior durability means they last longer and resist cracking better than standard retainers.

If you stop wearing retainers, your teeth will gradually shift back toward their original positions - a process called orthodontic relapse. This can happen surprisingly quickly, sometimes within just a few weeks or months. The amount of shifting varies by individual, but it's virtually guaranteed that some movement will occur without retention.

Vivera Retainers typically last 1-2 years with proper care, though this varies based on wear patterns and maintenance. Standard clear retainers may need replacement more frequently. Wire retainers can last many years if not damaged. We recommend bringing your retainers to regular check-ups so we can assess their condition.