How long do I need to wear a retainer after orthodontic treatment?

A retainer must be worn for at least 1 to 2 years after orthodontic treatment, and the longer you use it, the better. Teeth have a natural tendency to drift back to their original positions, and relapse is most likely during the first year right after treatment. Typically, 1) for the first 6 months to 1 year, you wear it all day except when eating and brushing, and 2) after that, wear is gradually reduced to nighttime only. However, if you stop wearing it for several days and the retainer no longer fits well, that is a sign your teeth have moved, so please visit us right away.