How Long Should You Wear Your Retainer?

Are you considering orthodontic care but have questions about how long you have to wear your retainers after you get your braces off? Watch this video by dedicated Buffalo Orthodontist Dr. Andrew J. Dusel to find out how long a retainer should be worn once your braces are removed. 

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  • As each patient gets their braces off, we provide very detailed instructions regarding how the retainers should be worn.
  • When we remove the braces from teenagers or adolescents, we instruct them to wear their retainers about full-time for 6-8 weeks after the braces come off. Following this initial period, we recommend they slowly reduce their wear to bedtime only. We insist upon patients wearing their retainers to bed. Or at least, until we are certain that the wisdom teeth will not cause changes in the bite.
  • Once the wisdom teeth are removed – if that is in fact necessary – we instruct patients to wear their retainers enough to ensure that they continue to fit. If that retainer fits right and is not too tight, we can be sure the teeth are not shifting.
  • As a general rule, I tell patients, “I continue to wear my retainers about three nights a week. That is enough to keep them fitting, so I know I do not have any change.”

Orthodontists Associates of Western New York is proud to offer braces for all ages throughout Buffalo, LancasterOleanHamburgOrchard Park, and DunkirkEast Aurora, and Niagara Falls New York. If you are considering orthodontic treatment for yourself or a loved one, please contact one of our 7 convenient orthodontic offices to arrange a free consultation.

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At Orthodontists Associates of Western New York, our reputation as a leader in orthodontic care is based on one thing… Making a Healthy and Beautiful Smile