When we remove your braces, you will begin the "retention phase" of your treatment. This retention phase is an extremely important stage of orthodontic treatment and lasts for approximately 36 months. This involves the wearing of your retainers, keeping your follow up appointments (there is no charge for these appointments as they are included in your treatment plan) and letting us know immediately if you have any issues with your retainers.
Most likely, your new retainers will be clear and almost undetectable. Unless our doctors prescribed otherwise, your retainers should be worn all day and throughout the night (except when eating) for the first six months. After six months, you can wear your retainers only at night, more if your retainer is feeling tight in the morning. Your final orthodontic result depends on your retainers, so follow through with the hard work you’ve put in so far.