Why teeth move back without retainers
Bone takes 9 to 12 months to fully remodel around a tooth's new position. Even after that, teeth shift subtly throughout life — that's true whether or not you ever had braces. Retainers counter that drift.
Retainers · Lifetime Protection
Retainers the result, protected.
Retainers hold your teeth in their new position while bone, gum, and surrounding tissue settle around them. Ongoing wear, at progressively reduced frequency, is the most reliable way to maintain an orthodontic result.
Fixed, removable, or both
Most patients have a combination. A fine wire bonded behind the front teeth keeps them aligned permanently. A removable plate worn at night holds the back teeth and the bite. The exact prescription depends on what was treated and what's most likely to move.
Replacement and repairs
Removable retainers should be replaced every 5 to 7 years for hygiene and material fatigue. Fixed retainers can last decades — we check them at every visit. Lost or broken? We'll get you back into a new one quickly.
FAQs · Retainers
Questions we hear most.
How long do I wear retainers?+
Lifetime. The first year is every night. After that, three or four nights a week is usually enough — but the moment you stop, teeth start to drift.
What if I lose my retainer?+
Contact the practice as soon as possible. The longer teeth go without retention, the more movement we're working against. A new retainer is usually fitted within a week.
Do retainers from braces also fit if I had aligners?+
Yes — the retainer is designed around the final tooth position, not the appliance used to get there. The prescription is the same either way.
Other treatments
Explore more pathways.
Adult Orthodontics
Modern orthodontic care for adults — discreet, efficient, results-led.
Learn moreTeen Orthodontics
Specialist braces and aligners designed around busy teenage lives.
Learn moreEarly Treatment (Age 7+)
Early intervention from age seven to guide jaw growth and prevent complex treatment later.
Learn moreClear Aligners
Discreet, removable clear aligners — fitted and supervised by a specialist orthodontist.
Learn moreInside · Retainers
Inside the practice.
Book a consult
Ready when you are.
An hour-long appointment with Dr Tom — all photos and x-rays, examination, every treatment option open to you, and a written quote to take home.