After finishing orthodontic treatment, wearing a retainer is a simple way to help prevent your smile from returning to its former misalignment. Here at Stroope Orthodontics, we offer both removable retainers and permanent retainers. Read on to learn about removable and permanent retainers and how long you can expect your retainer to last.

What Is A Retainer?

Unfortunately, it’s typical for teeth to shift back to their original positions after orthodontic treatment. A retainer is a device that holds teeth in place after they’ve been treated with braces or clear aligner therapy. This helps to prevent a relapse in teeth misalignment.

Which Retainer Is Right For Me?

Removable Retainer

A removable retainer is taken out when eating and for oral hygiene. After a period of consistent daytime wear, it can often be only worn at night. But the patient must remember to wear it and take care to keep it clean and in a safe place when it’s not in their mouth.

Image from Authority Dental under CC 2.0

Permanent Retainer

Permanent retainers are constructed of a metal bar or wire that is bonded to the back of your front teeth. It is discreet and you can’t lose it or forget to wear it because it’s attached to your teeth! However, a permanent retainer can make oral hygiene, particularly flossing, a bit more difficult because plaque is harder to remove.

How Long Do Retainers Last?

Removable Retainer

Many a teenager has lost their retainer in a cafeteria trashcan–yikes! Depending on how well you care for it, how much you wear it, and if you drop it or lose track of it, a removable retainer could last anywhere from a few months to several years.

Permanent Retainer

In contrast, permanent retainers have been known to last upwards of 20 years with proper care! But they are not invincible and can still be damaged or become worn out. A permanent retainer isn’t exactly “permanent” because it may eventually need to be replaced, but it’s definitely more durable than its removable alternative.