Retainers after Braces: What Canadians Should Know

Have you just finished an orthodontic treatment to straighten your teeth? Or are you just curious to understand what happens once your braces come off? You've found the right blog, as we'll dissect all that happens once the wires and brackets come off.

Yep, that means retainers after braces, a long-term partner in keeping that beautiful smile exactly where it should be. But how long do you need to wear them? Which type is best? And what happens if you skip a night (or a week)?

Let’s break it all down, real talk for those who’ve done the hard part and want to keep the results.

Why Are Retainers So Important?

One may think that once you finish your teeth straightening journey, as in once you achieve the desired look, and your teeth find their ideal place, that's it! Your teeth straightening journey should be complete, and now you can forget about it forever.

The unfortunate reality is…. Not really. Your teeth don’t want to stay there.

After braces, there’s a natural tendency for teeth to shift back to their original position. It is especially common in the first few months after treatment.

This is where the orthodontic retention phase comes in. A retainer holds your teeth in place while your gums, jawbone, and ligaments adapt to the new alignment. Think of it as giving your mouth time to “memorise” its new layout.

Types of Retainers after Braces

Just like braces, retainers aren’t one-size-fits-all. There are different options, and your orthodontist (or clear aligner provider) will usually recommend one based on your specific case.

Here are the main types of retainers after braces:

1. Hawley Retainers – The Reliable Classic

Let’s start with the Hawley retainer, the one that’s been around forever, the one your orthodontist might call "tried and true." It’s got that acrylic plate that sits against the roof of your mouth (or your lower gums) and a thin metal wire that wraps around your front teeth to hold everything in place.

Why people still use them:

• They last. Like, really last. Unlike clear retainers that can crack or warp, Hawleys are tough; drop one, and chances are it’ll be fine.
• Adjustable. If your teeth shift just a little over time, your orthodontist can tweak the wire to nudge them back, no need for a whole new retainer.
• Breathable. Since they’re not a tight plastic shell, your mouth doesn’t feel as closed in.

But they’re not perfect:

• Noticeable. That wire across your teeth? Yeah, people can see it when you talk or smile.
• The lisp phase. At first, you might sound a little funny, like you’re talking with something in your mouth (because, well, you are). It goes away after a week or two, but it’s annoying while it lasts.
• Bulkier feel. That acrylic plate takes some getting used to, especially against the roof of your mouth.

Best for:

• People who want something durable and don’t mind a little visibility.
• Anyone who might need minor adjustments after braces.
• Those who tend to lose or break things (because these are hard to destroy).

2. Clear Retainers – The Discreet Option

These are the ones that look like clear aligners, thin, clear, and practically invisible. Just a smooth plastic shell that fits snug over your teeth.

Why they’re popular:

• Almost invisible. Unless someone’s looking, they won’t notice you’re wearing one.
• Comfortable. No metal wires poking you, just a smooth fit.
• No speech issues. Most people adjust to talking with them in just a day or two.

But there are downsides:

• Fragile. Heat can warp them, grinding your teeth can crack them, and coffee or wine can stain them over time.
• Not forever. They usually last 6 months to 1 year before needing replacement.

Best for:

• People who care about aesthetics.
• Anyone who doesn’t want a visible retainer.
• Those who find Hawley's too bulky.

3. Permanent (Bonded) Retainers – The No-Fuss Choice

This one’s a thin wire glued to the back of your teeth, usually just the lower front ones, where teeth like to shift the most. You can’t take it out, which means it’s working 24/7.

Why they’re great:

• Zero effort. Once it’s on, you don’t have to remember to wear it.
• Always working. Your teeth stay put without you doing a thing.
• Completely hidden. No one will know it’s there unless you tell them.

But there are trade-offs:

• Flossing is harder. You’ll need special tools like floss threaders or a water flosser.
• Occasional repairs. The wire can come loose if you’re crunching hard foods.
• Takes getting used to. Some people find the feeling of the wire strange at first.

Best for:

• People who don’t want to think about wearing a retainer.
• Anyone prone to forgetting things (like taking out a removable retainer).
• Those who want "set it and forget it" protection.

How Long Do I Have to Wear Retainers?

Ah, the million-dollar question: how long to wear retainers after braces?

Let’s keep it real, it’s not just a few months. Most people need to wear retainers nightly for at least 12 months. And even after that, your orthodontist will likely recommend lifelong nighttime wear.

Sounds intense? Maybe. But trust us, wearing a slim retainer at night is way easier than going through braces all over again.

Can Teeth Shift after Braces?

Yes. And it happens more often than you think.

Skipping your retainer, or not wearing it long enough, can lead to teeth shifting after braces, sometimes subtly, sometimes noticeably. Crowding, spacing, and bite changes can sneak up on you, especially during the first year post-treatment.

It’s not just frustrating, it can undo all your hard work.

That’s why long-term teeth alignment relies on consistent retention. Think of it like maintaining a workout; you don’t need to train every day forever, but you do need to keep showing up.

Retainer Care Tips

Whether you're wearing a clear retainer or a fixed one, how you care for it makes a big difference in its longevity and hygiene.

Here are some easy retainer care tips to keep things fresh:

• Clean it daily – Use a soft brush and lukewarm (never hot!) water. Avoid harsh toothpaste or alcohol-based mouthwash.
• Keep it in the case – If it’s not in your mouth, it should be in its case.
• Avoid heat – Don’t leave it in a hot car or near radiators. Heat can warp plastic retainers.
• Check for cracks or fit issues – A retainer that doesn’t fit snugly might mean your teeth are shifting.
• Avoid Crunchy Sticky Snacks- Remember, if you shouldn’t eat popcorn with braces , then you definitely shouldn’t be eating it while wearing your retainers either, as both can easily be damaged by crunchy, sticky snacks.

What Happens If I Stop Wearing My Retainer?

Honestly? Nothing good.

Some people stop wearing their retainer because their teeth “feel fine”, until a few months later, when gaps or overlaps creep back in. Others accidentally skip a week and find the retainer no longer fits.

If your retainer feels tight, don’t force it—that’s often a sign your teeth have started shifting. This can lead to discomfort or pressure, and while it may feel similar to brace pain, the solution isn’t to push through. For proper care and lasting results (and to avoid needing braces pain relief all over again), it’s best to check in with your provider."

How ALIGNERCO Canada Supports You Post-Braces

At ALIGNERCO, we’re not just about getting your teeth straight; we’re about helping you keep them that way.

If you’ve completed your braces or aligner treatment (with us or somewhere else), we offer:

• Affordable custom retainers are shipped anywhere in Canada.
• Replacement plans so you’re never without a backup.
• Guidance on long-term teeth alignment, care, and retention support through customer service.

Because you deserve to enjoy your new smile for life, not just for a few months.

Are Retainers after Braces Really That Important?

Let’s put it this way: retainers are like insurance for your smile.

You’ve already invested time, money, and effort into getting your teeth straight—retainers make sure all of that hard work doesn’t quietly disappear.

So yes, they matter. A lot.

Whether you’re fresh out of braces, just finished clear aligner treatment, or had ortho work years ago, it’s never too late to take your post-braces care seriously. Retainers might seem like a small thing, but they play a huge role in your smile story.

If you’re in Canada and you’re looking for easy, affordable ways to protect your results, ALIGNERCO has your back (and your bite).