You’ve finished your braces or clear aligner treatment — congrats! But if you don’t wear your retainer as instructed, your new smile may not last. Retainers are crucial for maintaining the alignment you’ve worked hard to achieve.
Here’s what Canadian patients should know about what can happen if a retainer is neglected.
⚠️ Teeth Can Shift Back
This is known as orthodontic relapse. Your teeth are most at risk of shifting in the first few months after braces, but movement can still happen years later.
- Gaps may reopen
- Crowding can return
- Bite issues might reappear
🩺 How Quickly Does It Happen?
Some people notice changes within a few days to weeks of not wearing their retainer. For others, the shift is more gradual — but once teeth move, getting them back in place may require new treatment.
🫰 Can You Fix It?
If caught early, a replacement retainer might help. But in more advanced cases, you may need:
- New clear aligners
- Minor braces re-treatment
- Additional cost and time commitment
✅ Prevention Is Key
- Wear your retainer nightly (or as directed)
- Keep it clean and stored safely
- Contact your orthodontist if it no longer fits
Lost your retainer or haven’t been wearing it?
Contact McLevin Dental as soon as possible. We’ll assess your smile and help you get back on track before any major changes occur.