How Many Years Do You Have To Wear Retainers. After that time, you should wear your retainer all night during sleep for the rest of your life. How long will you have to wear your retainer?
This is the average time it takes for your teeth to settle and set into place. For kids & teens — if you had braces done when you were a kid, it is recommended to have a permanent retainer for at least 10 years but if it is not causing any hygiene problems after 10 years. With any orthodontic treatment, no matter if it is traditional braces or clear aligners, most orthodontists will recommend you wear a retainer after you finish treatment to maintain your smile.
From the third year to the rest of your life:
You can brush and floss like you normally would, and cleaning the retainer is a cinch, too. Once 12 months have passed, you should have enough new bone deposited around your teeth to keep them stable. After your prescribed period of time, your orthodontist will determine if you need to wear your retainer longer. It’s not uncommon for a retainer to last at least 10 years.