Moving past orthodontic appliances to retention is a essential step in preserving the results of your orthodontic treatment. Many people mistakenly believe that when the wires come off, their journey is over—but without proper retention, your smile may relapse over time. For a successful shift, comply precisely with your orthodontist’s personalized instructions. Your provider will recommend the right type of retainer—a custom thermoplastic retainer, a permanent wire behind your teeth, or 表参道 歯列矯正 dual-retainer therapy. You’ll receive clear guidance on the recommended hours per day and total timeline to wear it.

Right after braces come off, the majority of individuals must wear their retainers full-time, while consuming food or cleaning teeth. This consistent wear allows your teeth to stabilize in their new positions while the periodontal tissues remodel. Stay consistent with your schedule, even if you’re not noticing changes. Missing just 24–48 hours can cause subtle misalignment that are easily overlooked but accumulate over time.

Maintain daily hygiene for your retainer using cool water and a gentle brush. Never use hot water, as this may distort the appliance. Never clean it in a dishwasher, and place it in the provided holder when not in use to prevent loss or damage. If possible, maintain a secondary appliance—having your main retainer destroyed can delay your progress and lead to additional fees.

Attend all scheduled follow-ups so your orthodontist can evaluate your alignment and make necessary adjustments. As time passes, your orthodontist may gradually reduce your wear time, 7 to overnight only. Do not self-adjust your schedule. Only change with written approval.

Finally, maintain excellent oral hygiene. Brush and floss regularly to preserve gum health and enamel strength, because oral health is foundational to stable results. Diligence and persistence during this phase are the cornerstone of success. The effort you invest now will protect your investment in your smile for decades.

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Pub: 26 Jan 2026 14:50 UTC

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