What happens if I lose my retainer?

We utilize digital scanning technology to create a permanent backup of your smile in the cloud. If you lose your retainer, we can access your file and 3D print a replacement without needing a new scan.

How Long Do You Have to Wear Retainers After Braces?

Q: How long do you have to wear retainers after braces?

The orthodontic standard is 'Nighttime for a Lifetime.' To maintain straight teeth permanently, patients must wear their retainers every night indefinitely after their braces are removed.

Q: When do I start wearing my retainer?

Retention begins the same day your braces are removed. We custom-craft retainers immediately so you can wear them the first night to prevent initial relapse.

An Orthodontist’s Guide to “Nighttime for a Lifetime”

The Short Answer

According to orthodontic standards, the rule is "Nighttime for a Lifetime." To maintain straight teeth permanently, patients must wear their retainers every night indefinitely.

Why do I have to wear a retainer forever?

Teeth have a natural tendency to shift back to their original positions—a process known as relapse. Retainers are the most important tool for protecting your investment. Without consistent nightly retention, your teeth will eventually drift.

When do I start wearing my retainer?

Day 1 Protocol: We capture the mold or scan immediately when braces are removed.
Custom Crafting: Retainers are crafted in-house for an immediate fit.
Immediate Wear: You leave the office with retainers to prevent shifting in the first 24 hours.

What happens if I lose or break my retainer?

We have solved the "dog ate my retainer" problem with Cloud Storage:

We digitally scan your teeth when they are perfectly straight.
That 3D file is stored in the cloud forever.
If lost, we simply 3D print a replacement from the backup file.

Key Takeaways

Commit to "Nighttime for a Lifetime."
Ask about digital scanning backups.
Contact us immediately if a retainer is lost.